Israel continues to maintain high security readiness in Gaza while evaluating all available options. According to a report in The Wall Street Journal, a plan has been formulated that includes a series of measures that could lead to intensified warfare if negotiations with Hamas fail.
The measures outlined in the plan include halting humanitarian aid, cutting off electricity and water, and ultimately escalating military operations—potentially including intensified airstrikes and a renewed ground incursion into the Strip.
Postponement of Tree-Planting Event: A Sign of Tensions in the South?
On Saturday night, the IDF spokesperson announced that, following a security assessment, a planned tree-planting event in the “Sword of Iron Forest in the Gaza envelope region would be postponed. The announcement clarified that there were no changes to security guidelines for civilians, but the decision has raised questions about security preparedness in the south.
Defense officials explain that this is merely a cautious and cautionary step, but some interpret it as a signal of IDF preparations for a possible recommencement of fighting in Gaza.
Trump Administration Stands with Israel: “Determination to Eliminate Hamas”
Former senior US Pentagon official Michael Makovsky was quoted in The Wall Street Journal, as stating:
“There is determination to return and eliminate Hamas, no matter what happens. I expect Israel to act with greater strength and intensity.”
The report emphasized that in the event of escalation, Israel may act in phases—starting with airstrikes and progressing to targeted ground raids, with the ultimate goal of fully resuming combat if necessary.
Higher Preparedness Than the Previous Gaza Operation
According to the American report, Israel is now in a better position to enter Gaza than at the start of the war. Ammunition stockpiles have been replenished, U.S. pressure has eased, and the IDF is has less need to maintain forces along the northern border.
Furthermore, Hamas’s infrastructure has suffered significant damage, and estimates suggest that around 20,000 terrorists have been eliminated during the fighting, including senior commanders.
Israel: Focused on Hostage Recovery and Southern Border Security
Meanwhile, Israel continues diplomatic efforts to secure the release of the 59 hostages still held in Gaza. Negotiations with Hamas focus on ensuring their return while also demanding the disarmament of the terrorist organization.
Hamas, for its part, insists on a complete end to the war, but Israel remains firm, maintaining military and diplomatic pressure.
Israeli defense officials stress that Israel does not seek escalation for its own sake but will employ all necessary measures to protect its citizens and bring the hostages home. A senior Israeli security official told The Wall Street Journal:
“Israel is keeping all options on the table but still prefers a diplomatic solution if possible.”
