Israeli military says preparing for next phase of Gaza operation

Israeli forces are using a four-day truce with the militant movement Hamas, agreed to allow some hostages to be returned, to prepare the next phase of their operation in the Gaza Strip, Israel’s chief military spokesperson said on Friday.

“During the days of the truce, the [Israeli army] will complete its preparation and readiness for the next stages of the war,” Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari told a regular briefing.