02-07-2025
'Gideon's Chariots' ends as Israel begins next Gaza campaign
Shafaq News – Middle East
On Wednesday, the Israeli army announced the end of its "Gideon's Chariots" operation in the Gaza Strip and the beginning of a new phase in the ongoing war named 'The Poised Lion.'
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz revealed that the new operation aims to fulfill two primary objectives, the return of hostages and the complete removal of Hamas from Gaza. 'We will not retreat from this goal,' Katz said in a statement.
ביקרתי היום ברפיח עם אלוף פיקוד הדרום יניב עשור ומפקד אוגדת עזה ברק חירם ופגשנו בשטח את מפקדי החטיבות והמג"דים במילואים.קיימנו שיח פתוח וראיתי מקרוב את המסירות והנחישות לצד הקשיים והאתגרים הגדולים.מפקדים וחיילים גיבורים שנחושים להגן על עמם וכולנו חייבים לחבק אותם ולחוש גאווה…
— ישראל כ'ץ Israel Katz (@Israel_katz) July 2, 2025
Meanwhile, Hamas said it is reviewing ceasefire proposals put forward by mediators, amid ongoing efforts to end the years-long conflict in the Gaza Strip.
In a statement, the movement clarified it is conducting national consultations and approaching the mediation efforts with 'high responsibility,' as mediators push to bridge remaining gaps and reach a framework agreement for formal negotiations.
Hamas reiterated that its goal is to secure an agreement that ensures 'an end to the aggression, a full withdrawal, and urgent humanitarian relief for our people.'
