Tel Aviv [Israel], May 17 (ANI/TPS): The IDF announced tonight that it has launched the first stages of its major offensive in the Gaza Strip, dubbed "Gideon's Chariots."

According to a statement released by the IDF, the Army, "has launched extensive attacks and mobilised forces to seize strategic areas in the Gaza Strip, as part of the opening moves of Operation Gideon's Chariots and the expansion of the campaign in Gaza, to achieve all the goals of the war in Gaza, including the release of the hostages and the defeat of Hamas."

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"IDF troops in the Southern Command will continue to operate to protect Israeli citizens and realise the goals of the war," the military adds. (ANI/TPS)

(The above story is verified and authored by ANI staff, ANI is South Asia's leading multimedia news agency with over 100 bureaus in India, South Asia and across the globe. ANI brings the latest news on Politics and Current Affairs in India & around the World, Sports, Health, Fitness, Entertainment, & News. The views appearing in the above post do not reflect the opinions of LatestLY)