The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced that it is preparing to begin targeted ground operations in the central and southern Gaza Strip following two days of airstrikes against Hamas targets, the military press feed announced on March 19.

The military operation aims to expand the security zone and create a partial buffer between northern and southern Gaza, potentially separating north and south from the Mediterranean Sea, IntelliNews has learned.

“Over the past day, IDF troops began targeted ground activities in the central and southern Gaza Strip in order to expand the security zone and to create a partial buffer between northern and southern Gaza,” the IDF confirmed in an official statement on its official feed.

“Simultaneously, it was decided that the Golani Brigade would be stationed in the Southern Command area and will remain ready for operations in the Gaza Strip,” the IDF continued.

According to sources cited by The Jerusalem Post, IDF tanks have already entered the Netzarim Corridor in the Gaza Strip, marking a significant escalation in the military campaign.

This ground operation follows immediately after a two-day air campaign against Hamas positions and represents a major expansion of Israel's military response in the region.

On March 18, Israel renewed its airstrikes on the Gaza Strip, with over 400 reportedly killed in the attack. On the morning of March 19, a second round of strikes was concluded.

While Israeli society appears to be divided over its response to the resurgence in fighting, it seems that military goals are now at the forefront of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s agenda.

Whether the defeat of Hamas or the rescuing of the remaining hostages trapped in Gaza is the goal, it appears that there is an increasingly unlikelihood that a ceasefire deal remains on the table.