Unanticipated Obstruction Met by Israeli Troops in Al-Zaytoun Skirmishes, Gaza
In the heart of the ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip, the Al-Qassam Brigades, the armed wing of Hamas, have been posing a significant challenge to Israeli forces.
Recent reports suggest that Al-Qassam fighters have been attacking temporary Israeli positions in Al-Zaytoun nonstop, according to military sources quoted by the Yedioth Ahronoth newspaper. This persistent aggression has reportedly injured the deputy commander of a battalion in Israel's Armored Brigade in Al-Zaytoun.
The Al-Qassam Brigades have also been using improvised explosive devices (IEDs) frequently, challenging Israeli military advances. This tactic has reportedly surprised Israeli troops, who have been caught off guard by these devices.
Despite constant airstrikes and troop presence, the Palestinian resistance continues to attack Israeli forces and fire rockets at Israeli towns and cities. In a notable incident, Palestinian fighters from the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades participated in the funeral procession of Marwan Issa, a top Hamas commander killed in March 2024.
Israeli military reports suggest that the Armored Brigade's campaign in Al-Zaytoun may end in two weeks, but analysts warn that ambushes and hit-and-run tactics from the resistance may prolong the operation. This was evident when Israeli troops reportedly found a tunnel under their positions in the area, which had been repaired and reused by Hamas fighters despite being hit hard by Israeli airstrikes.
The ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip serves as a testament to the strength and operational capability of Hamas two years into the war. Despite the loss of their leader, Mohammed Sinwar, who was reportedly killed in an attack in May 2025, the Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades continue to carry out operations.
However, the Israeli government has not disclosed the number of casualties suffered during attacks by Al-Qassam fighters, adding a layer of mystery to the ongoing conflict. The Yedioth Ahronoth newspaper reported that Al-Qassam Brigades fighters have surprised Israeli forces with their combat skills and tactics during ongoing clashes in Al-Zaytoun.
Despite the challenging circumstances, Hamas has been able to rebuild military infrastructure, demonstrating their resilience and determination in the face of adversity. This resilience is a reminder of the complex and protracted nature of the conflict in the Gaza Strip.
