Israel army chief warns of military offensive if hostage talks fail

JERUSALEM: Israel’s military chief has warned that if negotiations with Hamas to secure the release of hostages collapse, combat operations in Gaza will resume.

Addressing military commanders, Army Chief Eyal Zamir said the situation in Gaza is not a ceasefire but a shift in operational posture.

He added that battlefield gains are being leveraged at the political negotiating table, and if diplomatic efforts fail, Israel will return to fighting.

Zamir said Israeli forces are continuing offensive operations, degrading the enemy across multiple fronts and changing realities throughout the Middle East.

The remarks echo earlier warnings by the U.S. president that if Hamas refuses to relinquish control of Gaza, it could face complete elimination.

The statements come as Israel and Hamas prepare for talks aimed at securing the release of remaining hostages.