Israeli force infiltrates Khan Yunis to abduct a Hamas leader.

In a secret operation carried out by a special unit of the Israeli army, a force infiltrated the center of Khan Yunis city in southern Gaza Strip, disguised in civilian clothes resembling Palestinian refugees, carrying bags covered with blankets and sheets suggesting they contained personal belongings, while in reality concealing weapons and ammunition.

The operation, according to Israeli and Palestinian media sources, aims to carry out a dual mission: attempting to release Israeli hostages believed to be held in the sector, and arresting a leader of the Al-Qassam Brigades after intelligence indicated his exit from the tunnels.

According to circulated images, the force used deception by disguising in women's clothing and carrying bags to mislead the residents and fighters in the city.

However, no hostages were announced to be released, and the force withdrew without any declared or confirmed results. Israeli sources stated that the operation also aimed to abduct a Hamas military wing official for interrogation, following his possible emergence from the tunnels.

In a parallel context, the Israeli army announced that these movements are part of a broader operation known as "Judean Wagons," involving intensified operations in various parts of Gaza, without explicitly disclosing the details of what happened in Khan Yunis.

This comes as Israeli military pressure continues on the Gaza Strip, in an attempt to push Hamas to make political concessions within stalled negotiations to end the war.

Israeli authorities estimate that around 58 hostages are still held in Gaza since October 7, 2023, including 24 individuals believed to be alive.