IDF raises level of readiness around Gaza, deploys reinforcements

The Israeli army has raised the level of combat readiness around the Gaza Strip and announced the deployment additional troops to the area in case of "various scenarios," reported from TASS.

"In accordance with the situational assessment and the decision to raise the level of readiness in the Southern Command, it was decided to increase reinforcements with additional troops, including reservists," the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said. "The reinforcements of troops and mobilization of reservists are being carried out in preparation for various scenarios."

This move followed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s statement who warned that Israel will resume combat operations in the Gaza Strip unless Hamas releases another group of hostages by February 15.

A day prior, Hamas said that it was suspending the hostage release process and accused Israel of violating the Gaza ceasefire deal.