Operation not over, says Israeli military chief amid hostage talks with Hamas

Israel Defence Forces (IDF) Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir has told troops in Gaza to remain ready for fight "at any time," saying the current pause in fighting could end quickly if ongoing diplomatic efforts fail.

Zamir's remarks came during a visit to the Netzarim Corridor, south of Gaza City, as Israel halts major operations amid US President Donald Trump's push to end to the conflict.

"There is no ceasefire, but there is a change in the operational situation," Zamir said, according to statements released by the IDF. "The political echelon is taking the tools and achievements you have brought through military action and translating them into a political achievement."

Zamir, who was touring positions recently recaptured by Israeli forces, said the army must stay vigilant in case diplomacy collapses. "If the political effort does not succeed, we will return to fight," he warned. "The operation is not over; we must remain alert and ready for combat at all times."

In a statement on X, the IDF reiterated that the release of hostages held in Gaza would mark "a significant achievement."

During his field visit, Zamir conducted a surprise drill with soldiers from the 99th Division. He addressed the reservists from the Harel and Yiftah brigades and praised their efforts.

NEGOTIATORS HEAD TO EGYPT FOR HOSTAGE TALKS

The visit comes as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu directed Israeli negotiators to head to Egypt for talks on a potential hostage deal. His office said the delegation will be led by Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer, though Dermer himself is not expected to travel with the rest of the team.

Talks are scheduled to take place in Sharm El-Sheikh instead of Cairo, the Prime Minister’s Office confirmed. The delegation, excluding Dermer, is set to depart tomorrow.

ONUS IS ON HAMAS: NETANYAHU

In an interview with Euronews, Netanyahu said it remains uncertain whether Hamas will accept terms to free the remaining hostages. "It is possible that Hamas will agree to release the hostages it is holding in Gaza," he said, striking a cautious tone.

"If it doesn’t happen, what President Trump has said is that he will back Israel completely in acting forcefully against Hamas," Netanyahu added.

He warned that Israel will not hesitate to act if Hamas refuses to cooperate. "Now the onus is on Hamas," Netanyahu said.

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With inputs from agencies