Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich announced plans for renewed military operations in Gaza after Eyal Zamir became Chief of Staff. The offensive has resulted in significant casualties and exacerbated the humanitarian crisis in the area, reflecting ongoing tensions and complex negotiations surrounding ceasefire agreements with Hamas.
Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich announced that plans to resume the military campaign against Gaza began shortly after Eyal Zamir became the new Chief of Staff. He stated on X that the Israeli military will intensify its offensive on Gaza, characterizing the current operation as meticulously planned and significantly different from previous assaults, although he did not elaborate on specifics.
Zamir officially took office in early March, succeeding Herzi Halevi, who had overseen a prolonged military campaign against Palestinians. According to Israeli Broadcasting Authority, Zamir sanctioned military strategies to escalate actions in Gaza during a visit to the Southern Command, which involve intensifying airstrikes, increasing ground movements, evacuating northern Gaza residents, and mobilizing reservists in a state of emergency.
On Tuesday morning, Israel launched a renewed and substantial military operation in Gaza, following claims that Hamas had declined offers from U.S. envoy Steve Wietkoff and others. Reports indicate that this escalation resulted in the death of 326 Palestinians and numerous injuries, marking a significant breach of the ceasefire facilitated by several mediators earlier this year.
This renewed aggression compounds the already dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, exacerbating the suffering of the civilian population in the region. Smotrich has expressed firm opposition to negotiations or agreements with Hamas, emphasizing the government’s resolve to pursue military objectives against the group while conditioning his participation in the government upon a phased implementation of any ceasefire agreements.
The first phase of a ceasefire and prisoner exchange agreement between Hamas and Israel was concluded on March 1, 2025, yet Netanyahu’s government has hesitated to implement further steps, particularly those relating to military withdrawal and cessation of hostilities. Hamas has called for adherence to all aspects of the agreed framework, advocating for resumed negotiations aimed at long-term peace.
In summary, Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich declared plans to intensify military operations against Gaza followed by the appointment of a new Chief of Staff. The renewed offensive, already associated with significant civilian casualties, deepens the ongoing humanitarian crisis. Furthermore, Smotrich’s strong opposition to ceasefire agreements reflects the current Israeli administration’s strategic focus, while Hamas continues to emphasize the need to uphold all terms of negotiation.
Original Source: www.jordannews.jo
