Israel Expands Gaza Offensive, Kills Hamas Commander in Lebanon

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have intensified their military operations in Gaza, specifically targeting the Shejaiya neighborhood, while also conducting a significant airstrike in Lebanon that killed Hassan Farhat, a senior Hamas commander. This operation aims to strengthen Israel's security buffer and dismantle remaining Hamas infrastructure, with recent airstrikes in Gaza resulting in the deaths of several Hamas operatives. The IDF has facilitated civilian evacuations from the conflict zones, although the situation remains dire, with many Palestinians fleeing amid escalating violence. Concurrently, the airstrike in Sidon has drawn condemnation from Lebanese officials, who regard it as a violation of sovereignty and a breach of the ceasefire established in November. The renewed hostilities follow the collapse of negotiations for a ceasefire, with both sides sustaining significant casualties. Israeli officials maintain that these actions are necessary to address ongoing security threats posed by Hamas and other militant groups.