IDF forces are re-entering areas in the northern Gaza Strip and around Rafah, including the Netzarim route that bisects the Strip, based on the understanding that only holding territory will allow for a decisive outcome against Hamas, according to a report in the Wall Street Journal.
Earlier, reports indicated that in light of renewed fighting in Gaza and the failure of efforts to formulate a new deal for the release of hostages, Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir issued warnings to the political echelon in recent days. In several discussions held with security system leaders, Zamir warned that Hamas is “buying time” and called for an expansion of military operations: “This is not a tactic, it’s a strategy. The IDF’s action is hurting them, but it is not leading to the release of hostages. Therefore, we have no choice, we need to increase the pressure.”
Government Officials Share This Direction
Senior government officials have indicated that this is the current approach, according to a report by Yaron Abraham on Israeli Channel 12 News. Although mediators continue to try to revive diplomatic channels, the military and the government understand that the current military operation is not sufficient, and there is a need to intensify the pressure on Hamas to change the balance of power.
Air Force Eliminates Senior Hamas Officials
Meanwhile, the IDF continues airstrikes as part of a broad initiative that began last week. The IDF spokesperson announced last night that two senior Hamas officials were eliminated: the deputy commander of the Gaza Brigade and the commander of the Shejaiya Battalion. The two were considered part of the local leadership of the terrorist organization.
First and Foremost, the Hostages, We Must Not Abandon Them
Last night, a demonstration took place at the Hostages Square in Tel Aviv, where families of hostages called for accelerating a deal as soon as possible. “The fighting could kill the hostages,” was conveyed by the families’ headquarters. “First and foremost, the hostages—we must not abandon them.”
