On April 20, 2025, Hamas’ military wing claimed credit for an ambush launched against Israeli forces operating in central Gaza on Sunday evening amid intensified ground operations and increasing hostilities in the region.
Hamas’ military arm, Al-Qassam Brigades, issued a statement alleging their ambush targeted an Israeli infantry unit moving through densely populated neighborhoods near Al-Bureij refugee camp. They claimed their fighters detonated explosive devices and engaged directly in fire, inflicting casualties among Israeli troops as a result of which many soldiers may have died as a result.
“Our fighters valiantly confronted the occupation forces and caused losses among their ranks using a combination of improvised explosive devices and anti-personnel weapons,” according to a statement issued by the group. Additionally, footage purporting to show this operation has also been released, though its authenticity remains unverified by third parties.
Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed an incident in central Gaza but provided no details regarding troop casualties. A brief statement issued by IDF stated its forces were engaged in ongoing combat with terrorist elements while responding to hostile fire with precision strikes.
The latest confrontation follows an Israeli military campaign designed to dismantle Hamas infrastructure throughout Gaza following months of intense conflict. Despite international calls for peacekeeping efforts and ceasefire agreements, clashes between Israeli forces and Hamas fighters continue at various flashpoints throughout Gaza Strip territory.
Military analysts note that Hamas appears to be shifting towards more guerrilla-style tactics, such as ambushes, tunnel warfare and hit-and-run operations as Israeli forces tighten their grip on urban centers. These techniques aim to slow the Israeli Defense Force’s advance while increasing costs associated with ground operations and slow their advance.
Gaza civilians remain trapped in increasingly dire conditions, and aid organizations have warned of an impending humanitarian catastrophe. Entire neighborhoods have been reduced to rubble while key infrastructure such as hospitals and shelters continue to face severe shortages.
The international community has issued appeals for civilian protection and renewed diplomatic efforts towards an acceptable diplomatic resolution; however, both sides continue to escalate and there are no immediate indications of de-escalation.
As the conflict progresses into another volatile stage, with shifting tactics and intensified desperation taking over, tensions remain volatile and remain at an all-time high.