IDF chief, in Gaza, tells commanders to be prepared to resume fighting at any time

IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir tells commanders in Gaza today that they must be prepared to resume fighting at any time, as the military has paused offensive activity because of a push by US President Donald Trump to reach an end to the war.

“There is no ceasefire, but there is a change in the operational situation, the political echelon is taking the tools and achievements you have brought through military action and translating them into a political achievement,” Zamir says during a tour of the westernmost point of the Netzarim Corridor, south of Gaza City, which was recently recaptured by the army.

“If the political effort does not succeed, we will return to fight,” he says, according to remarks provided by the IDF.

Zamir says that “the campaign is not over; we must continue to be alert and prepared for combat at all times.”

“We must not forget, we have more war objectives; we will not allow Hamas to remain undefeated as a governing and military system in Gaza. If required, we will fight to achieve that. If an agreement is reached, we will prepare and hold forward controlling areas that will allow full operational flexibility and the return to any place [in Gaza] that is required,” he adds.

Speaking separately to reservists of the Harel and Yiftah brigades, Zamir says, “If the hostages are released, it will be a significant achievement and the fulfillment of a principal war objective, and it is thanks to you.”

“We hope to see all 48 hostages home soon; this is an ethical, moral, and national imperative,” he adds.

During his visit to the Netzarim Corridor, Zamir also carried out a snap drill with forces of the 99th Division, who are stationed in the area, simulating a Hamas attack on an army post, the military adds.