May 17, 2025
Israel has issued a final warning to Hamas, signaling that without immediate progress on a hostage deal, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) will move forward with a new ground offensive. According to sources cited by Israel Hayom, reserve troops have already been called up, and the operation could begin shortly after U.S. President Donald Trump departs the region. Hamas has continued to reject a partial agreement based on the Witkoff framework, prompting Israel to reiterate that military action is imminent if negotiations do not advance quickly.
Preparations are underway, with some reservists already mobilized to either participate directly or replace active-duty forces engaged in the coming maneuver. The IDF's plan reportedly includes seizing a large section of the Gaza Strip and relocating the local population southward. To mitigate humanitarian concerns, Israel is working to set up aid centers in southern Gaza, managed by international organizations or an American firm. While officials say a narrow window remains for Hamas to accept the hostage deal, the group’s continued resistance—especially under the influence of hardliners like Mohammed Sinwar—leaves the situation tense. Israeli intelligence increasingly believes Sinwar has been killed, and continued strikes are targeting the area where he was last located to prevent any potential rescue.
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SOURCE: Israel Hayom