Israeli Plans for Renewed Offensive in Gaza Revealed by Smotrich

Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich disclosed that military plans for a renewed offensive in Gaza were initiated post the appointment of Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir. Recent escalations have led to increased casualties and humanitarian crises, amid ongoing discord regarding ceasefire agreements and military tactics with Hamas. Smotrich has emphasized his opposition to any compromises with Hamas and outlined conditions for remaining in the government.

Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich announced that plans for a renewed military campaign against the Gaza Strip commenced weeks ago following the appointment of Eyal Zamir as the new Chief of Staff of the Israeli military. He emphasized that this offensive is intended to be a more intense and gradual operation compared to prior efforts.

Eyal Zamir took office in early March, succeeding Herzi Halevi, who had overseen military actions against Palestinians for over 15 months. Reports indicate that Zamir has endorsed military plans that involve intensifying airstrikes, conducting ground operations, and evacuating Palestinian populations from northern Gaza, alongside mobilizing reserve soldiers.

On Tuesday, a significant escalation occurred, with Israeli forces resuming military operations across Gaza. This marked a substantial violation of the ceasefire brokered by Qatar, Egypt, and the U.S. ongoing efforts to rescue trapped victims under debris have compounded the humanitarian crisis that Gaza faces.

Smotrich expressed his strong opposition to deals with Hamas, affirming that the government’s position remains steadfast against any agreements. He stressed the determination to complete the objective of dismantling Hamas. Furthermore, he has conditioned his continued participation in the government on the adherence to the first phase of a ceasefire and prisoner exchange agreement, which concluded on March 1, 2025.

While Netanyahu has refrained from implementing the second phase of the agreement, Hamas has called for adherence to all agreed terms, demanding negotiations to commence immediately for the second phase. This includes Israel’s withdrawal from Gaza and a complete cessation of hostilities.

In summary, the renewed military operations against Gaza have been attributed to plans developed following the appointment of Eyal Zamir as Chief of Staff, with significant escalations confirmed. The humanitarian implications are severe, as noted by the casualties incurred during these attacks. Furthermore, ongoing political tensions regarding ceasefire agreements and military strategies persist between Israeli officials and Hamas, as negotiations remain stalled.

Original Source: www.jordannews.jo