Israeli Chief of General Staff Warns of Renewed Conflict despite Ceasefire Efforts
October 5, 2025 – Israeli Chief of General Staff Eyal Zamir stated that continued attacks against Gaza are possible despite ongoing ceasefire discussions, asserting that “Hamas will continue to attacks if the presence of Hamas continues.”
According to an israeli Army spokesperson, Zamir made the remarks during a visit to Israeli forces operating in the Netzarim Corridor west of Gaza on October 5, 2025.
Addressing soldiers, Zamir emphasized the need to leverage military gains for political advantage, stating, “There is no ceasefire, but there is an operational change. Political authorities, you bring the vehicles and gains you have brought with your military movement and turn them into political success.”
Zamir warned that a return to war is likely if political efforts fail, saying, “if the political effort fails, we will go back to war.” He further stated the Israeli army has “other war targets” and is determined to dismantle Hamas, declaring, “We will not allow hamas to continue its existence at both government and military level in Gaza. If necessary, we will fight to achieve it.”
The statement comes amidst reports of a potential prisoner exchange plan. On October 3, hamas announced that US President Donald Trump had accepted the plan, with some details still requiring negotiation.
President Trump, based on details from Hamas, expressed his belief that the group is prepared for “a permanent peace” and called for an immediate halt to Israeli bombardment of Gaza to facilitate a safe and swift prisoner release.
The Israeli Prime Ministry office released a statement indicating that Tel Aviv is prepared to implement the first stage of the plan to release prisoners held in Gaza.
