Israel has escalated its military campaign in Gaza following the breakdown of a two-month ceasefire. Ground and air strikes have targeted key Hamas strongholds, with Israeli officials claiming major progress—reportedly eliminating much of Hamas’ leadership and severely crippling its operational capabilities. “We’ve been fighting them for 10 days. All they’ve managed to do is fire seven rockets,” said Maj. Gen. Yaakov Amidror, highlighting the damage dealt.
Amidror emphasized that the strategic landscape has shifted: Hezbollah is weaker, Iran faces constraints, and U.S. support remains strong. Humanitarian aid efforts are being restructured to bypass Hamas’ influence, as Israel aims not only to defeat Hamas militarily but also dismantle its governing infrastructure.
The fate of Israeli hostages held by Hamas remains a central concern. Former Mossad deputy Ram Ben Barak supports halting the war if all hostages are returned, but warns that any resurgence of Hamas activity would warrant renewed military action. He also advocates for an international civil authority to govern Gaza and prevent Hamas from reestablishing control.
Israel estimates that fully dismantling Hamas’ capabilities could take a year.
Defense Minister Israel Katz warned of impending expanded operations, urging Gaza residents to demand Hamas’ removal and hostages’ release as the only path to ending the war.
