Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich stated that military operations against Gaza resumed shortly after Eyal Zamir became Chief of Staff. Reports indicate a significant escalation in violence, with ongoing humanitarian crises and tensions surrounding a ceasefire agreement with Hamas. Smotrich’s opposition to negotiations with Hamas further complicates the situation.
Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich announced on Tuesday that plans to resume military operations against the Gaza Strip commenced a few weeks ago, coinciding with Eyal Zamir’s appointment as Chief of Staff. Smotrich declared on X that the Israeli military has intensified its operations on Gaza, asserting that the current offensive is a methodical strategy developed since Zamir took office, although he did not disclose specific details.
Eyal Zamir officially took over as Chief of Staff in early March, succeeding Herzi Halevi, who had presided over the military campaign against Palestinians for more than 15 months. Reports from the Israeli Broadcasting Authority indicated that Zamir recently endorsed military strategies aimed at escalated conflict in Gaza during his visit to the Southern Command, which involve increased airstrikes and expanded ground movements, as well as the evacuation of northern Gaza residents.
On Tuesday, Israel renewed its large-scale military campaign in Gaza, citing Hamas’s refusal to accept proposals from U.S. envoy Steve Wietkoff among other mediators. The assault commenced during early morning hours and has reportedly led to the deaths of 326 Palestinians while injuring many others, marking a significant violation of the ceasefire agreement established by Qatar, Egypt, and the U.S. earlier in January.
This renewed offensive exacerbates an already dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where residents are enduring ongoing hostilities amid a constrained living situation. Smotrich voiced his opposition to negotiations between Israel and Hamas, emphasizing the government’s resolve to eradicate Hamas and fulfill its military objectives.
Remaining within the government, Smotrich has stipulated that his continued participation hinges on implementing the first phase of the ceasefire and prisoner exchange agreement before resuming military actions. By March 1, 2025, this initial phase was finalized after an extensive 42-day mediation process involving Qatar, Egypt, and U.S. support.
Despite this, Prime Minister Netanyahu has yet to execute the second phase of the agreement, as he seeks to negotiate for the release of additional Israeli captives without fully adhering to the ceasefire terms. Conversely, Hamas has reiterated its commitment to the agreement, urging Israel to meet all requirements and to engage in immediate discussions for the next phase that necessitates Israel’s withdrawal and an end to hostilities in the region.
The statements and recent actions by Israeli officials signal a renewed focus on military operations in Gaza, particularly following Eyal Zamir’s appointment as Chief of Staff. The situation remains critical, with Israel’s military actions escalating amidst humanitarian concerns, and ongoing tensions regarding the ceasefire and prisoner exchange agreement with Hamas. Smotrich’s remarks highlight the government’s adamancy towards military objectives, complicating prospects for lasting peace and resolution in the region.
Original Source: www.jordannews.jo
