The Israel-Hamas ceasefire concluded on Monday as Israel declared a resumption of airstrikes in Gaza. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) stated they were conducting extensive strikes on Hamas terror targets, citing Hamas’ refusal to accept a hostage release and a ceasefire extension as the justification for returning to conflict. Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Oren Marmorstein explained that despite Israel’s willingness to extend the ceasefire and release more hostages, Hamas declined, leaving Israel no other option but to pursue the return of its hostages through military action. Israel’s objectives in the ongoing conflict include securing hostage releases, destroying Hamas infrastructure, and ensuring there is no future threat similar to that of October 7th.

Marmorstein acknowledged the suffering of Palestinians but held Hamas responsible for using civilians as human shields. He confirmed that the IDF warms Palestinians in advance of operations through various methods. Response to the call for an immediate return to the ceasefire by the Hostages and Missing Families Forum was dismissed, with Marmorstein arguing that military operations are necessary to secure hostage releases due to Hamas’s unyielding stance.

The piece also underscored the closeness of the relationship between the Trump administration and Israel, with Marmorstein praising the U.S. for its support. He expressed confidence in Israel’s ability to defeat Hamas and carried forward the notion of Israel having no other choice but to win this battle as articulated by former Prime Minister Golda Meir. Rachel Wolf, the piece’s author, is identified as a breaking news writer for Fox News Digital and FOX Business.

Source: https://www.foxnews.com/world/israeli-official-thanks-trump-administration-country-resumes-war-gaza