Israel-Hamas war: Gaza war to continue for at least two more months says Israeli Defence Minister

The four-day ceasefire between Israel and the terrorist group Hamas will commence Friday, but experts say after a short pause fighting will resume with intensity for at least two months, The Times of Israel has reported.

Gallant outlined the objectives during the ceasefire, including the release of hostages as part of a deal mediated by the US and Qatar. At least 50 Israeli women and children, taken hostage during the October 7 offensive, are expected to be released. In return, Israel will release 150 Palestinian prisoners, all of whom are women or minors, and a four-day break in the conflict will facilitate the delivery of essential humanitarian aid.

IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi affirmed Gallant’s statements, emphasizing that the military is not concluding the war but striving to connect goals to create conditions for the release of abducted hostages. The temporary truce is set to begin at 7 am local time, with increased IDF shelling attacks reported throughout the night across the Gaza Strip. Residents in the Gaza area have been instructed not to move from the conflict zone, as it is considered dangerous.

IDF strikes have predominantly targeted the Jabalia, Nuseirat and al-Maghazi refugee camps in northern Gaza, although exchanges of fire between Israeli troops and Palestinian gunmen have been reported in nearby Beit Lehia. Residents living in the Gaza area have been told not to move from the conflict zone as it is “not allowed and dangerous”.

A post shared on the IDF X page, formerly Twitter said, “IDF Spokesperson for Arab media, @AvichayAdraee, to the civilians of Gaza: “The war is not over yet.

Israel has expressed its commitment to eliminating Hamas from Gaza and ending the group’s 15-year rule, launching an aerial and ground offensive. The pause in hostilities, prompted by international pressure, is expected to be followed by a resumption of the military campaign after the four-day period.