Israeli Expert Predicts ‘Shorter, More Intense’ Next Phase of War

As negotiations for the release of Israeli hostages remain at a deadlock, Israel is preparing for a new, more intense phase of the war against Hamas. Security experts and senior officials suggest that the coming battles will be shorter but far more aggressive, aimed at eliminating Hamas' control over Gaza once and for all.

The appointment of Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir as the new IDF Chief of Staff signals a shift in strategy. In his first address, Zamir stated that 2025 would be a “year of war,” emphasizing Israel's focus on Gaza and Iran. The Israeli military has already begun drafting new, more forceful battle plans for the resumption of combat in Gaza.

Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump has renewed his warnings to Hamas, declaring that “it is OVER” for the terror group if the hostages are not freed. Trump's administration has significantly altered U.S.-Israel relations, offering Israel unprecedented military and diplomatic backing. Recent reports indicate that the U.S. has approved a major weapons shipment to Israel, further bolstering its capabilities.

Despite weeks of negotiations, Hamas rejected a U.S.-backed proposal to extend the ceasefire and release additional Israeli hostages. The terror group’s refusal prompted Israel to close all crossings into Gaza, blocking the entry of humanitarian aid.

Since Hamas' attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, 255 hostages have been taken. While most have been freed, 59 remain in captivity, and at least 35 are believed to be dead. Israeli security expert Kobi Michael emphasized that as long as Hamas remains in power, hostages will continue to be used as bargaining chips, making a long-term resolution impossible.

"Israel and Hamas' end goals are irreconcilable," Michael stated. "Even if Israel agrees to further prisoner exchanges, it cannot allow Hamas to remain in control of Gaza."

According to national security expert Gabriel Ben-Dor, Israel has learned from past phases of the war and is preparing for a much more focused, high-impact campaign.

"The next round of fighting will be much shorter, much more intense, and its result will be Gaza without Hamas," he said.

Ben-Dor also noted that the presence of hostages previously complicated Israel’s military efforts, slowing operations to minimize risk. Now, with fewer hostages remaining and improved intelligence, the IDF is likely to act with greater precision and force.

While the conflict in Gaza remains Israel's immediate priority, its long-term strategic concerns extend beyond Hamas. Just one day after Zamir emphasized the IDF’s focus on Gaza and Iran, the Israeli Air Force conducted a joint drill with U.S. forces, reinforcing military coordination between the two allies.

Security analysts suggest that Israel’s handling of Hamas will have broader implications for Iran's nuclear ambitions.

"If Israel decisively eliminates Hamas, it will send a powerful message to Iran and change the region's balance of power," Michael explained. "But any hesitation could embolden Tehran."

Israel has made it clear that it will not allow Iran to develop nuclear weapons. However, any military action against Iranian nuclear sites would require close coordination with the U.S. For now, Washington is pursuing diplomatic pressure on Iran, though Israeli officials remain skeptical of its effectiveness.

With preparations underway for the next stage of war, Israel’s strategy is shifting toward finality. Whether through military action or diplomatic maneuvering, the goal remains clear: Hamas must be removed, and Iran’s influence contained. Share this article or subscribe to our newsletter for updates on Israel’s efforts to secure peace and stability.