WarSclerotic

IDF aircraft have targeted rocket squads in Gaza in recent days, but the Egyptian official says Israel has also planned a wider operation. The official says Egypt asked for 24 hours to try to bring all factions into an informal cease-fire and Israel agreed to give Cairo until around midnight Tuesday.

IDF tank near Gaza (Archive photo: George Ginzburg)

The official spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to discuss Egyptian mediation. The Israeli defense ministry had no immediate comment.

But on Monday, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahuwarned from the podium of the Knesset that Israel would operate “vigorously and resolutely” against those who would threaten its security. 

“A security philosophy cannot rely on defense alone,” Netanyahu said. “It must also include offensive capabilities, the very foundation of deterrence.” 

At least 10 terrorists and an Israeli civilian have been killed in recent days in the worst violence in the area in months. 

The Islamic Jihadfaction had led the attacks that began last week, but on Sunday agreed to stop the violence if Israel also did. Rocket fire that drew retaliatory Israeli airstrikes persisted afterward, but it was claimed by a different group. 

Gaza’s Hamas leaders have not directly been involved in the attacks but Israel holds Hamas responsible for all violence from the territory.