Israeli forces have withdrawn from Jabalia in northern Gaza following a three-week military offensive that resulted in widespread destruction and significant displacement of civilians. The Israeli military reported the elimination of "hundreds of terrorists" and the destruction of 10 kilometers (6 miles) of tunnels during the operation.

The offensive, which began months after a previous withdrawal from the city, was aimed at countering what the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) described as a regrouping of Hamas militants. The IDF stated that Hamas had transformed the civilian area into a "fortified combat compound," using schools and other sheltered areas to launch attacks and build an extensive underground network.

Photographs from Jabalia depict extensive devastation, with many multi-storey buildings reduced to rubble or left as bombed-out shells. The IDF's actions in Jabalia were part of broader efforts to dismantle Hamas's military infrastructure, including the destruction of rocket launchers and weapons production sites.

During the operation, the bodies of seven Israelis, who were killed during the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7 and subsequently taken to Gaza, were discovered and repatriated. The IDF described the combat in Jabalia as some of the most intense of the ongoing conflict, according to reports by the Times of Israel.

The conflict, which began in October with an unprecedented attack by Hamas gunmen that resulted in the deaths of approximately 1,200 people and the abduction of 252 hostages, has led to significant casualties on both sides. The Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza reports that over 36,000 people have been killed in the Israeli offensive.

The prospect of renewed ceasefire talks has diminished as Hamas announced on Thursday its refusal to negotiate under current conditions, citing "aggression, killing, siege, starvation, and genocide" by Israel. Hamas stated its willingness to reach "a complete agreement" if Israel ceased its military actions. However, Israel has committed to continuing its efforts until it achieves its objectives of dismantling Hamas and securing the return of hostages.

A key aide to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu indicated that the conflict could extend for at least the remainder of the year, reflecting the entrenched and protracted nature of the hostilities.