'Fierce confrontations follow Israeli ground incursion in Gaza': Abu Obaida

Abu Obaida stated that, following over 20 days of intense preparations, the enemy initiated ground operations in multiple areas within the Gaza Strip.

He mentioned that the enemy's approach involved adopting a scorched earth strategy, resulting in extensive destruction through both ground and aerial bombardments, as well as naval assaults.

Abu Obaida emphasized that the moment the ground incursion commenced, they promptly mounted a deliberate response and defense across all fronts, engaging in ongoing and intense direct confrontations.

Abu Obaida revealed significant developments on the battlefield. He reported that their fighters had effectively engaged enemy forces, resulting in the destruction of 22 military vehicles through the use of Al-Yassin anti-armor missiles.

Furthermore, they introduced a novel tactic for the first time in this battle, employing canisters from point-blank range against enemy tanks.

These actions have led to the killing and injury of a substantial number of enemy soldiers, with ongoing artillery and missile responses.

The Al-Qassam Navy achieved a significant milestone by directing attacks against naval targets off the coast of Gaza using a remotely piloted storm torpedo, a tactic introduced for the first time in this conflict, he said.

Abu Obaida emphasized that their defensive operations were still in progress, affirming their determination to make Gaza the enemy's graveyard and a quagmire for both its soldiers and political/military leadership. He confidently predicted that the battle would ultimately bring about the political end of the war in Gaza.

Abu Obaida also issued a call to all honorable soldiers and fighters in the nation to join the battle.

Lastly, Abu Obaida addressed the enemy's claims about the release of a female captive and categorically denied that any captive held by Al-Qassam had been handed over. He acknowledged the possibility that the event may have transpired through independent parties, potentially involving Gazans who hold prisoners.

He also revealed that mediators had informed them about their intention to release a number of foreigners in the coming days, aligning with their desire to avoid keeping them in Gaza.