Israeli Predictions of a Return to War in Gaza: “A Matter of Time”

Israeli sources and officials in Tel Aviv anticipate a resumption of fighting in the Gaza Strip, asserting that the renewal of war is only a matter of time. This follows the postponement of the release of Palestinian prisoners, who were set to be freed last Saturday as part of the first phase of the ceasefire agreement.

According to Hebrew media reports, a senior Israeli political official stated that “there is an understanding with the Americans that once the new Israeli Chief of Staff takes office and a new military leadership is formed, a military operation will be inevitable—regardless of whether the first phase is extended or the second phase begins.”

The Israeli i24 news channel reinforced this stance, stating that “returning to war is not a matter of if, but when.” The channel noted that the Israeli army has increased military readiness and operational assessments around Gaza, even though evacuation instructions for settlers remain unchanged.

Prisoner Release Agreement Amid War Threats

In contrast, another Hebrew news channel reported that an initial agreement had been reached regarding the release of the seventh batch of Palestinian prisoners, who were supposed to be freed last Saturday as part of the first phase of the ceasefire agreement in Gaza.

Israel’s Channel 12 stated that “two bodies of Israeli captives will be transferred to Egypt within the next 24 hours. Following this, 301 Palestinian prisoners—half of the designated batch—will be released.”

Hamas: No Progress Without Israeli Compliance

Hamas has not officially commented on these reports but affirmed that discussions regarding the second phase of the prisoner exchange deal—or the extension of the first phase—are contingent on Israel fulfilling its obligations.

He further condemned Israel’s decision to halt the release of the seventh batch of prisoners with American approval, describing it as an act that has disrupted the humanitarian protocol.

Al-Qanou also highlighted the dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza, emphasizing that hundreds of thousands of displaced people are suffering in makeshift tents, shelters, and schools under inhumane conditions—a situation that demands urgent intervention and humanitarian aid.