The Israel Defense Forces have conducted the first ground raids in the Gaza Strip to eliminate terrorists and search for Hamas hostages.

The IDF announced these operations late on Friday evening, October 13.

The Israeli military also published a video of an air strike on targets of Palestinian terrorist organization.

The IDF conducted raids in Gazan territory to eliminate the threat of terrorist cells and infrastructure.

? The past 24hrs:

The IDF conducted raids in Gazan territory to eliminate the threat of terrorist cells and infrastructure.

Soldiers collected evidence that will aid in?locating hostages.

The IAF continued striking Hamas terrorist targets and anti-tank missile launchers in… pic.twitter.com/QEr9KCM7R7

— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) October 13, 2023

According to IDF Spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, both infantry and tanks participated in the ground raid.

The soldiers of the IDF were reportedly collecting evidence that could help in the search for hostages taken by Hamas militants during an attack on Israeli territory on October 7.

The IDF Spokesperson said that the raids “destroyed the terrorist infrastructure and terrorist units they encountered,” including a Hamas unit armed with anti-tank missiles.

The Israeli Air Forces continued striking Hamas terrorist targets and the rocket launchers that the latter use to fire at Israel.

As previously reported, on October 13, the Israel Defense Forces called on all civilians in Gaza to evacuate to the south within 24 hours for their own safety. The IDF has warned that it will continue to strike Hamas targets.

The statement emphasized that Hamas terrorists were hiding in Gaza City in tunnels under houses and in buildings inhabited by innocent civilians. It is noted that people will be able to return to Gaza City only when an announcement with permission is made.

The statement came on the eve of the expected ground offensive by the Israel Defense Forces against Hamas terrorists in the Gaza Strip.

Attack on Israel

On the morning of October 7, Hamas militants invaded Israel from the Gaza Strip, taking control of several border settlements, taking dozens of hostages and killing more than 1,000 people. In response, the IDF launched a large-scale Operation Iron Swords against the militants. The very next day, the country declared a state of war.