The IDF has launched a major division-level new push in western Khan Yunis, ushering in likely the most intense fighting since early December when the military first entered other parts of Hamas’s southern capital.

Division 98 has unleashed serious forces from its seven brigades, artillery, tanks, and air support, and surrounded western Khan Yunis which until now the IDF had mostly steered clear of. …

The IDF called western Khan Yunis the heart of Hamas’s operations there, including areas where its top two leaders, Yahya Sinwar and Muhammad Deif, grew up.

[This is the more practical answer from Israel’s war cabinet to Hamas demands for a complete withdrawal and release of all prisoners in exchange for the remaining hostages. Let’s see if the Israeli public remains supportive of this answer. — Ed]