IDF Vows to Continue Operations Until Hostages Are Freed

During a situational assessment in the northern Gaza Strip, IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Herzi Halevi reaffirmed Israel's commitment to continue military operations until Hamas releases all hostages held in Gaza. Halevi, accompanied by Southern Command Commander Maj.-Gen. Yaron Finkelman and Brig.-Gen. Itzik Cohen, emphasized the military's resolve to push Hamas to an "unbearable" point, ensuring the return of hostages.

“We will bring them to the point where they understand they must return all the hostages,” Halevi stated. “Otherwise, the highly professional work you are doing will continue—taking more prisoners and killing more operatives,” he added, underscoring Israel's strategy to pressure Hamas through sustained military action.

Hostage Negotiations and Potential Ceasefire

On Tuesday, the Israeli public broadcaster KAN revealed a document detailing the framework for hostage negotiations with Hamas, which has been presented to Israel's security cabinet. The agreement focuses on the release of all Israeli hostages—civilians and soldiers—held in Gaza in exchange for a number of Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails. This agreement also calls for a permanent ceasefire, the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, and the rebuilding of the region.

The document specifies that Hamas would begin releasing hostages on the first day of the deal, starting with female hostages, followed by more releases every seven days. By the seventh day, Hamas must provide detailed information on the hostages to be freed.

Plans for Gaza's Post-War Reconstruction

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has already approved the first steps toward Gaza's post-war reconstruction. This includes rebuilding infrastructure, clearing rubble, and providing housing in the form of caravans and tents. These efforts are part of a larger plan aimed at restoring stability in Gaza after a ceasefire is achieved.