IDF's Shifa Hospital operation: At least 140 terrorists killed, 650 arrested

Hamas and Islamic Jihad militants targeted in IDF's operation at Shifa Hospital, Gaza Strip.

Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) carried out a four-day operation at Shifa Hospital in northern Gaza, resulting in the deaths of approximately 140 militants from Hamas and Islamic Jihad.

IDF's Shifa Hospital operation: At least 140 terrorists killed, 650 arrested

Additionally, around 650 terrorists were apprehended during the operation. This marks a significant increase from previous figures confirmed by the IDF.

The operation, which had been in planning for over a month, aimed to subdue Hamas fighters within the Shifa Complex. 

While Islamic Jihad operatives surrendered promptly, Hamas forces exhibited divided responses, with one group surrendering en masse and another group continuing to resist, potentially prolonging the operation.

Key Hamas and Islamic Jihad officials were Captured 

Key Hamas and Islamic Jihad officials, including intelligence and terror heads, were captured by the IDF. 

Notable captures include 

1. Husam Salame and Wasem Salame from Islamic Jihad, as well as Amad Atzida and Hamdala Hassan Ali from Hamas. 
2. Mahmoud Kawasme, previously linked to the abduction and murder of three Israeli teenagers in 2014, was also among those arrested.

IDF sources suggested that the return of terror groups to Shifa, despite a previous IDF operation in November 2023, may indicate a shift in IDF strategy. The military asserts readiness to act regardless of global criticism, particularly during sensitive periods like Ramadan.

Furthermore, IDF sources highlighted enhanced intelligence capabilities in Gaza, achieved through operational control, even in seemingly abandoned areas.