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Israel is winding down its intense military operations in the Gaza Strip, while gearing up for a potential confrontation with the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah on its northern border. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu shared these developments in an interview with Israeli journalists, as reported by the Times of Israel and Jerusalem Post .
End of Intense Phase of Military Operations
“The intense phase of operations against Hamas will soon be over. This does not mean the war is about to end, but the war in its intense phase is nearing its end in Rafah,” Netanyahu stated. He mentioned that after this phase concludes, Israel will redeploy some of its forces to the northern border to counter potential threats from Hezbollah. The primary focus of these actions will be defensive, though diplomatic solutions are also being considered.
Preparation for Multi-Front Warfare
Netanyahu expressed confidence in Israel’s readiness to handle challenges on multiple fronts. “We can fight on several fronts; we are ready for this,” he emphasized. According to Netanyahu, Israel will continue its operations in Gaza until Hamas is completely destroyed. He also did not rule out a temporary pause in exchange for a partial agreement, potentially including the release of hostages.
Context of Negotiations
U.S. President Joe Biden previously stated that Israel had offered Hamas a new deal comprising three stages: a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, the release of hostages, and the withdrawal of all Israeli troops from the enclave. Biden described this offer as a “roadmap to a long-term ceasefire and the release of all hostages.”
Netanyahu confirmed that Israel is willing to discuss ending the war but emphasized that a complete ceasefire is not on the table. He mentioned that Israel might pause military actions for 42 days to facilitate the return of hostages but will continue its operations until Hamas is fully eradicated.
“Iranians and all our enemies are watching us; they want to see if we will surrender,” Netanyahu concluded.
The intense phase of fighting in the Gaza Strip is nearing its end, but the war is far from over. Israel is preparing for potential threats from Hezbollah and will continue its operations until a decisive victory is achieved. While diplomatic efforts and temporary pauses are possible, the ultimate goal remains unchanged: the complete destruction of terrorist groups threatening Israel’s security.
