Israel's Military Chief Announces Preparations for Major Offensive in Gaza

The Times of Israel reported that Israeli Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir announced the military is prepared to conduct a large-scale offensive aimed at gaining control of additional territories within Gaza, particularly those located behind the ceasefire lines referred to as the "yellow line."

Zamir emphasized that the military's objective is to prevent Hamas from rebuilding its military capabilities by securing strategic areas and vital access points into Gaza. He noted that Israeli forces currently control over 50% of the territory in the strip but do not have authority over the civilian population.

He further asserted that the Hamas government would not persist beyond the border, even if this requires additional time. Zamir highlighted that the military is facing challenges on multiple fronts and is operating in a rapidly changing environment.

These comments come amid growing calls within Israel to escalate military operations, particularly from right-wing factions that argue the government has yet to achieve its war objectives, especially in Rafah and southern regions.