Israeli Defense Minister Prepares Military for Potential Conflict in Gaza

The Israeli Defense Minister, Israel Katz, has instructed the military to prepare for the possibility of renewed conflict in the Gaza Strip, as reported by Israeli sources.

Currently, there are no directives from Israel's higher political leadership regarding the reopening of the Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt, according to the Israeli news site "Walla".

A security source indicated that the likelihood of allowing goods into Gaza is low, suggesting that this could delay reconstruction efforts until the remains of Staff Sergeant Ron Arad, the last Israeli captive, are recovered, or until Hamas is disarmed.

The U.S. administration continues to exert pressure on Israel, with President Donald Trump's administration advocating for a transition to the second phase of the Gaza agreement and peace plan.

However, Israel's reluctance to accept this proposal has prompted the U.S. to suggest initiating reconstruction in the Rafah area, which is devoid of Hamas presence and remains under Israeli oversight.

It remains uncertain whether Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has consented to this U.S. initiative.