IDF Chief Approves First Gaza Strike Since Ceasefire Amid US Pressure to Halt Operations

On Wednesday afternoon, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) carried out a targeted strike in the Gaza Strip that eliminated a Hamas operative, marking the first such attack approved directly by Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir since the ceasefire. This type of operation, which typically occurs multiple times daily, had been paused under instructions from Prime Minister and Defense Minister following American diplomatic pressure.

The targeted individual was a commander of a cell planning attacks against IDF forces operating in Gaza. The IDF stated the strike was necessary to neutralize an immediate threat to its troops. Since the ceasefire, Israeli forces have reportedly killed 514 militants and wounded approximately 150 others in the Gaza area, while striking 790 targets. Officials noted that the threshold for action has expanded since the ceasefire, emphasizing that the pause in targeted killings was a political directive during ongoing negotiations rather than a lack of military motivation.

Military sources refuted claims made by Israel Beytenu chairman Avigdor Lieberman about a drill involving 50 militants preparing to seize a settlement. They explained that intelligence was received and verified, readiness was increased, capabilities were enhanced, and the threat was ultimately dismissed as unfounded. The sources confirmed that, per political leadership's orders, targeted killings were temporarily suspended, but troops remain authorized to thwart immediate threats without senior military approval.