Operation Pillar of Defense launched in Gaza

On November 14, 2012, Israel launched Operation Pillar of Defense in response to a significant increase in rocket attacks from Gaza, which targeted southern Israeli cities. The operation commenced with the targeted killing of Ahmed Jabari, the chief of Hamas's military wing, marking a decisive action against the leadership of the militant group. Following this, the Israeli Defense Forces conducted airstrikes on approximately twenty underground sites that were identified as housing long-range missile launchers capable of reaching major urban centers, including Tel Aviv. The primary objective of Operation Pillar of Defense was to mitigate the rocket threat emanating from Gaza and to restore a sense of security to the residents of southern Israel. This military operation underscored the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, highlighting the complexities of regional security and the challenges faced in achieving lasting peace.