The IDF will soon stop the intense fighting in Gaza to switch focus to Hezbollah

Netanyahu says phase of intense fighting against Hamas is coming to an end, though it does not mean an end to the war in Gaza and that the IDF will move more forces to the north, Reuters, reports.

This also indicates that Israel wants to expand “operations” in Southern Lebanon, including the anticipated ground invasion or other pressure to try to stop Hezbollah's drone and missile attacks on Israeli settlements and military bases. 

In a meeting with the US envoy Amos, Israeli minister of defense Gallant informed him that the transition to Phase III of the war in Gaza will have an impact on all sectors (both Gaza and the North). He adds that Israel is preparing for every possibility - military and diplomatic to resolve the conflict with Hezbollah.

By phase 3 he meant the end of the invasion in Gaza, and stationing the Israeli army in the newly created buffer zones to maintain "raid ability".

Netanyahu on Gaza war

In an interview yesterday, Netanyahu mentioned important standpoints:

- He does not want to end the war in Gaza just yet

- He claims he will leave Gaza once they return all hostages

- He said he agrees to a partial hostage deal which returns all kidnapped Israelis after which he can continue to war. He refuses a deal to end the war