In a significant development in the ongoing conflict, Israeli officials and analysts have stated that Israel is close to achieving its goals in Rafah, a southern city in Gaza that was seen as Hamas's final stronghold. This progress raises the possibility that the major military operations carried out over the past months might soon transition into a new, less-intense phase of the conflict.

Israel's widespread ground and air attacks, which have caused extensive damage and claimed numerous lives, have brought them close to their objectives, according to Israeli officials. A shift away from these large-scale attacks would mark a significant milestone in the war, offering potential relief to the civilians who have endured months of violence. It would also provide an opportunity for increased humanitarian aid and potentially rejuvenate diplomatic efforts aimed at reaching a cease-fire deal and securing the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas.

Although the war is far from over, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reported that they have already destroyed most of Hamas's 24 battalions and severely degraded three of the remaining four battalions in Rafah. However, lone fighters and small groups continue to launch rockets into Israel and target troops, even in areas already under Israeli control in Gaza.

Tragically, on Saturday, eight Israeli soldiers were killed when their armored personnel carrier was hit by an explosion in Rafah. Hamas's armed wing, the Izzedine al-Qassam Brigades, claimed responsibility, calling it a "painful blow" to the Israeli military.

Israel has expressed its intention to maintain a presence in Gaza, or in close proximity to the enclave, to keep Hamas in check indefinitely. A senior Israeli military official stated that the guerrilla fighting is ongoing, and their current focus is on defeating the Rafah brigade.

The IDF launched a major operation in Rafah on May 6, despite international warnings about the potential consequences for the civilian population. The war has already created a humanitarian crisis, placing Israel under mounting international pressure to alleviate the situation. The United States, for instance, threatened to withhold offensive weapons shipments if Israel did not adequately prioritize civilian safety during operations in Rafah's densely populated neighborhoods.

As the IDF nears the completion of major operations in Rafah, the next phase is expected to involve targeted campaigns and smaller-scale raids to prevent Hamas from regrouping. Yossi Kuperwasser, a retired brigadier general and former director general of the Strategic Affairs Ministry, outlined that these targeted operations will be executed by a smaller number of Israeli troops.

The approaching conclusion of the Rafah offensive presents an opportunity for renewed diplomacy. U.S. officials, closely monitoring the situation, hope that this development will open doors for negotiations. Attempts to reach a six-week cease-fire and a prisoner exchange deal had stalled previously, as Hamas demanded explicit assurances from Israel about ending the war.

Israel's recent decision to initiate daily pauses in the fighting to facilitate the entry of humanitarian aid through the Kerem Shalom crossing near Rafah signals that the IDF is nearing the end of its operations.

While this marks a significant development in the conflict, it is important to note that the war is not over yet. The situation remains fluid, and future diplomatic efforts and military operations will play a crucial role in determining the path to a lasting resolution.