IDF conducted strikes on eight terrorists emerging from underground in eastern Rafah early Friday morning, the IDF announced.
The eight terrorists were identified by troops coming up from below the ground, and were then struck by the Israeli air force, successfully killing three of them.
Later in the morning, additional strikes were made against the areas to which the remaining terrorists attempted to escape. The results from these strikes are currently under review, and the IDF said they are continuing to search the area for the remaining terrorists.
Hamas disarmament talks expected after Rafah Crossing reopening
The strikes come as the preparations to reopen the Rafah Crossing continue, following the recovery and repatriation of the body of the last abducted Israeli hostage, Ran Gvili. Discussions on disarming Hamas are expected to begin only after the crossing reopens.
According to sources, a Palestinian technocratic administration in Gaza is slated to lead negotiations with Hamas regarding disarmament. “The idea is that Palestinians will negotiate with Palestinians,” one of the sources said.
Amichai Stein contributed to this report.