Israeli official talks resuming war in Gaza, thanks Trump for support
On Monday, the Israel-Hamas ceasefire came to an end as Israel announced the resumption of airstrikes in Gaza. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) took to social media to declare that they were conducting extensive strikes on terror targets belonging to the Hamas terrorist organization in the Gaza Strip. Israel cited Hamas’ repeated refusal to accept a hostage release and ceasefire extension as the reason for the return to conflict.
According to Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Oren Marmorstein, Israel had offered to extend the ceasefire and release more hostages, but Hamas rejected the proposal. Marmorstein emphasized that Israel had no choice but to resume military operations in order to secure the release of the hostages. He outlined Israel’s war objectives, which include securing the hostages’ release, destroying Hamas infrastructure, and preventing further threats to Israeli security.
Israel has long accused Hamas of using Gaza civilians as human shields and has warned residents ahead of airstrikes to seek safety in designated shelters. IDF Spokesperson for Arabic Media Col. Avichay Adraee issued a warning in Arabic prior to the airstrikes, urging residents to move to known shelters to avoid danger.
Despite calls for an immediate return to the ceasefire from the Hostages and Missing Families Forum, Marmorstein reiterated that resuming military operations was necessary to compel Hamas to release the hostages. He highlighted efforts by the Trump administration, including proposals by special envoy Steve Witkoff, to facilitate the release of hostages through a ceasefire plan. However, Hamas rejected these proposals, leading to the resumption of hostilities.
Marmorstein praised the Trump administration for its support of Israel during the conflict, describing the relationship between the U.S. and Israel as reaching new peaks under President Donald Trump. He expressed confidence in Israel’s ability to defeat Hamas and other terrorist organizations, citing the Jewish people’s historical resilience in the face of adversity.
In conclusion, Marmorstein affirmed Israel’s commitment to winning the fight against Hamas and reiterated the nation’s determination to protect its citizens at all costs. The resumption of airstrikes in Gaza marks a renewed effort by Israel to secure the release of hostages and eliminate threats to its security.
