Government authorizes IDF to call up 400,000 soldiers

Order to call up troops. — Photo: Amir Segal Telegram Channel

The Israeli government voted to affirm the Defense Minister's order to call up as many as 400,000 soldiers if needed for operations. The order will be valid until May 29, 2025.

With the end of the first phase of the ceasefire last night (Saturday), Israel is now tightening the screws on Hamas, with the aim of securing the release of the 59 remaining living and slain hostages still held in the Gaza Strip.

The government has already committed itself to the Witkoff proposal "for a temporary ceasefire during the Ramadan and Passover period.

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Most importantly: "On the first day of the framework, half of the living and deceased hostages will be released and upon its conclusion – if agreement is reached on a permanent ceasefire – the remaining living and deceased hostages will be released.

"Steve Witkoff proposed the framework on extending the ceasefire after gaining the impression that, at present, there was no possibility of bridging between the positions of the sides on ending the war, and that additional time was required for talks on a permanent ceasefire.

"While Hamas has repeatedly violated the agreement, Israel has not been found in violation. According to the agreement, Israel could return to fighting after the 42nd day if it gains the impression that the negotiations have been ineffective. This article is supported in a side letter by the previous US administration and has also received the support of the Trump administration.

"While Israel has agreed to the Witkoff framework in order to return our hostages, Hamas has, until now, clung to its rejection of this framework.

"If Hamas changes its position, Israel will immediately enter into negotiations on the overall details of the Witkoff framework."

While it initially gave support to the idea of an extended first phase, Hamas now insists that any further release of hostages must be part of the second phase of the hostage deal, including a complete withdrawal from the Gaza Strip, an end to the war, and rebuilding of the Gaza Strip with Hamas in charge.