Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich indicates plans for renewed military operations in Gaza initiated since Eyal Zamir’s assumption of Chief of Staff. The operations include intensified airstrikes and ground movements, amid continued dissatisfaction with ceasefire negotiations. This military escalation adds to the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, following extensive prior conflicts and agreements.
Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich announced the planning of a resumption of military operations in Gaza, initiated following the appointment of Eyal Zamir as Chief of Staff. In a statement via X, Smotrich detailed that the military had embarked on a renewed offensive, distinguishing this forthcoming operation as significantly different from prior actions.
Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir, who took office in early March, has reportedly endorsed intensified military strategies during his assessment of the Southern Command. These strategies entail ramped-up airstrikes, increased ground movements, evacuation of northern Gaza civilians, and mobilization of reserve forces under emergency conditions.
On Tuesday, Israel launched an unexpected escalation in its military campaign on Gaza, leading to the deaths of 326 Palestinians and numerous injuries, as reported by local accounts. This renewed aggression violates a previous ceasefire agreement established with Qatar, Egypt, and the U.S. in January, further complicating the humanitarian crisis in the region.
In his analysis of Prime Minister Netanyahu’s approach towards Gaza, Smotrich reiterated his disapproval of any negotiations with Hamas. He emphasized his commitment to remaining in government, contingent upon the execution of only the initial phase of the ceasefire and prisoner exchange agreement before resuming military actions.
The first phase of the ceasefire agreement with Hamas was completed by March 1, 2025, following extensive mediations; however, Netanyahu has obstructed the second phase, focussing on releasing more Israeli prisoners without adhering to prior commitments concerning cessation of hostilities and withdrawal from Gaza. Hamas has responded by insisting on compliance with all terms of the agreement and encouraging prompt negotiations for the second phase.
The article highlights the recent statements and plans of Israeli officials regarding escalated military operations in Gaza, following the new appointment of Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir. Israeli military strategies aim to intensify offensive actions while reframing approaches to prior ceasefire agreements. The situation exacerbates the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with tensions surrounding negotiations between Israel and Hamas remaining unresolved.
Original Source: www.jordannews.jo
