Israel Continues Operations in Gaza, Lebanon, Syria Amid Ongoing 'War of Revival'
On Saturday, September 26, 2026, marking the 1086th day of the 'War of Revival,' also known as the 'Iron Swords' war, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reported ongoing operations across multiple fronts. In the West Bank, IDF forces were active in Arab villages, including Kalandia camp and the village of Masliya near Jenin, as well as Beit Likya southwest of Ramallah. The IDF maintains control over a buffer zone in southern Lebanon and southwestern Syria, conducting strikes and operations in these territories as needed.
While a ceasefire is formally in effect in Gaza, the IDF controls a buffer zone encompassing over 60% of the strip. The military stated it attacks terrorists in response to violations and conducts targeted assassinations. Early morning reports indicated IDF artillery strikes on a target in northern Gaza City.
The 'War of Revival' began on October 7, 2023, with a large-scale Hamas attack from Gaza, involving rocket barrages and the infiltration of thousands of militants who killed over a thousand civilians and security personnel, taking hundreds hostage. Hezbollah subsequently joined the conflict with rocket fire from the north. The war has resulted in significant casualties on both sides, with the IDF reporting approximately 970 soldiers killed since the conflict's inception. Hamas and Hezbollah have also suffered substantial losses, with tens of thousands of militants reportedly eliminated.
The conflict has seen numerous escalations, including Israeli strikes in Lebanon, Syria, and Iran, and retaliatory attacks from Iran, Hezbollah, and the Houthis in Yemen. The article details various phases and operations, including the elimination of key terrorist leaders like Ismail Haniyeh, Hassan Nasrallah, and Yahya Sinwar, and significant events such as the pager and radio explosions targeting Hezbollah operatives in September 2024. Ceasefire agreements and prisoner exchanges have been attempted and implemented, with the last Israeli hostages reportedly returned by October 2025, and the remains of the final captive by January 2026. However, the situation remains volatile, with the article noting the high probability of renewed conflict in Iran and continued IDF operations in the West Bank, Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria.