Gaza city: Israeli army announced the opening of a new corridor bisecting Khan Younis city in the southern Gaza Strip. The corridor, named Magen Oz, extends approximately 15 kilometers and separates the eastern and western parts of Khan Younis.

According to Anadolu Agency, the Israeli army emphasized that Magen Oz is a critical element in their strategy to apply pressure on Hamas and secure a decisive defeat against the Khan Yunis Brigade. The Israeli army has previously introduced other strategic axes, including the Netzarim axis, the Philadelphi Corridor, and the Morag axis, each playing a role in dividing sections of Gaza.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has referenced these axes in discussions, using them as a basis to delay indirect negotiations with Hamas. Despite Hamas's acceptance of earlier proposals and calls for an Israeli withdrawal, Netanyahu insists on maintaining these axes to continue the offensive in Gaza.

Since late October 2023, Israel has rejected international calls for a ceasefire, leading to a severe offensive on Gaza. The ongoing bombardment has resulted in the deaths of nearly 58,500 Palestinians, with women and children comprising a significant portion of the casualties. The relentless attacks have devastated the region, causing widespread food shortages and the spread of diseases.

In November, the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, citing war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza.