IDF Chief Approves Next Phase Of War Against Hamas

Israel Announces Next Phase of War Against Hamas in Gaza City Operation

Grassroots Push for Freedom in Gaza Grows as Hamas Tightens Its Grip

Netanyahu, Right-Wing Ministers Slam Hostage Protests

Politicians Respond: ‘Solidarity for Our Hostages Turned into a Political Campaign’

WATCH: Pack to School: A Fresh Start for Kids

Pack to School: A Fresh Start for Kids

Top Banks Notch Record Profits from Credit and Fee Growth During Wartime

Large Protests Held Across Israel as National Strike for Hostages Gets Underway

Cyprus at Risk if Iran Goes Nuclear, President Warns

Report: Israel Approves Indonesia’s Humanitarian Aid Airdrop to Gaza

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IDF Chief Approves Next Phase Of War Against Hamas . . . 

https://www.youtube.com/shorts/_bMIMjXTYy0

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The IDF Chief of the General Staff, Lt.-Gen. Eyal Zamir said on Sunday, August 17, that Israel is moving into the “next phase” of the fight against Hamas under Operation “Gideon’s Chariots.” He emphasized a sharpened focus on Gaza City, stating that military momentum will continue until Hamas faces decisive defeat and that the return of hostages remains the army’s moral duty and foremost priority.

During a field tour with front-line units, Zamir framed the campaign not as an isolated push but as part of a multi-front approach aimed at reshaping Israel’s security reality—referencing recent operations against threats linked to Iran and its network of proxies. The Chief praised troops for sustained combat over nearly two years and underscored that both living and fallen captives must be brought home.

The transition comes alongside Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s broader plan for Israel to assume long-term control in Gaza after Hamas is neutralized. The Security Cabinet’s framework empowers the defense establishment to mobilize large reserve forces to carry out the mission through late fall, aligning military pressure with hostage-rescue imperatives.

“He trains my hands for war, so that my arms can bend a bow of bronze.” – Psalm 18:34

As Israel prepares to intensify operations against Hamas, Gazan educators, activists, and civil-society voices are speaking out—despite the risks. In eastern Rafah, teachers have begun building classrooms that promote peace and tolerance outside of Hamas-run structures.

One educator described years of favoritism and discrimination under the terror group and said communities are working to rebuild learning environments where children are encouraged to respect human dignity.

Youth advocates tied to the “We Want to Live” movement report being hunted by Hamas security operatives and forced into hiding. They say more residents blame Hamas for the devastation that followed October 7, with dissent meeting swift repression—including public threats intended to frighten critics into silence.

Analysts note an “anti-Hamas” shift among Palestinians inside Gaza and in exile. Some warn that Israel’s stated intention to take full control of the Strip could intensify hardship in the short term, even as many Gazans demand a governing alternative that serves civilians rather than militants. Amid the fear and fatigue of nearly two years of war, activists still push for space to teach, organize, and imagine a post-Hamas future.

“Lord, we lift up the brave in Gaza who long for peace and protection from violent rule. Shield the innocent, give courage to those who reject terror, and open doors for righteousness and reconciliation. We ask that Your wisdom guide leaders and that freedom, safety, and truth take root for every family on both sides of the border.”

On Sunday, August 17, as families of the hostages organized a nationwide strike and scores of demonstrations across the country, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accused protesters of delaying the captives’ release and prolonging the war. Organizers sought to bring daily life to a standstill to demand a deal, while government figures argued the disruptions would embolden Hamas rather than pressure it.

Crowds gathered from the Galilee to Eilat, with particularly heavy participation expected in Tel Aviv’s Hostages Square, where organizers anticipated close to a million people to cycle through the area throughout the day. The strike unfolded as the government signaled a new phase of the Gaza campaign aimed at seizing and holding Gaza City to dismantle Hamas’s remaining military capacity.

The day’s events highlighted a widening divide over strategy: families pressing for an immediate agreement to bring loved ones home, and leaders insisting that sustained pressure remains essential to break Hamas’s leverage. Even as Israel projects resolve, the scale of public mobilization underscored the urgency and national anguish tied to the hostages’ fate.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” – Proverbs 3:5–6

Israeli leaders traded barbs on August 17 over the nationwide strike and rolling demonstrations for the hostages. Transport Minister Miri Regev argued that unity is the key to victory and accused a “handful” of protesters of dividing the country and damaging infrastructure. National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir condemned the strike as a continuation of pre–October 7 actions he believes weakened Israel, while Democratic Party chair Maj. Gen. (res.) Yair Golan urged citizens to join protests to press for a deal “now.”

Opposition chair Yair Lapid blasted ministers who claimed the strike “strengthens Hamas,” countering that government failures, not public demonstrations, have prolonged the crisis. Smaller rallies also formed outside ministers’ private residences in Jerusalem and cities across the center of the country, keeping political pressure high.

The rhetoric reflects a tense moment: as the war enters a new operational phase, Israel’s political class faces mounting calls to prioritize a hostage agreement, even if it means tactical compromises in Gaza. Supporters of the demonstrations say they are an act of moral urgency; critics contend they risk fracturing national resolve at a critical hour.

“Father, we pray for the hostages and their families. Please comfort them and give wisdom to Israel’s leaders. Grant unity of purpose across political lines, courage to make righteous decisions, and favor for an agreement that brings every captive home safely. Protect the security forces and restrain those who use unrest for harm.”

Every school year, our team works hard to distribute school bags stuffed with supplies for children in need throughout the country. Together, we’re helping children from all backgrounds start off strong—and we’re so thankful for your support.

Israel’s three biggest lenders—Leumi, Hapoalim, and Discount—reported another quarter of record profits, driven by high net interest income, robust credit growth, and rising fees. 

Leumi’s Q2 profit climbed to roughly NIS 2.6 billion with net interest income around NIS 4.54 billion; Hapoalim posted NIS 2.5 billion, citing double-digit gains in financing income and fee revenue; and Discount reported NIS 1.12 billion, attributing results to credit expansion and higher commissions.

The earnings, announced August 15, arrived as households and small businesses continued to face elevated borrowing costs and war-related pressures. While the Bank of Israel cut rates once in January 2024, the benchmark has remained at 4.5%, leaving mortgage and loan holders under strain even as banks’ bottom lines swell. The widening gap between lender gains and the public’s financial reality has sharpened scrutiny of pricing and fees during the prolonged conflict.

Beginning early Sunday, August 17, a nationwide general strike rippled across Israel as hostages’ families and supporters marched, blocked roads, and rallied from the Galilee to Eilat. 

Organizers expected as many as a million people to pass through Tel Aviv’s Hostages Square during the day, with high-profile appearances amplifying calls for a deal to end the captives’ ordeal. 

The strike coincided with Israel’s pivot toward a Gaza City–focused campaign, intensifying debate over whether battlefield pressure or negotiated compromise is likelier to bring the captives home. By nightfall, demonstrations continued at major junctions, and parallel solidarity protests appeared abroad, signaling sustained public engagement as the war grinds on.

“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” – Psalm 46:1

Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides cautioned on August 17 that a nuclear-armed Iran would directly endanger his country, while reiterating that Israel is Cyprus’s closest regional ally. 

His comments, published in the morning and later updated, underscored the broader Mediterranean stakes as Tehran’s program continues to shadow Israeli and European security planning. 

The warning arrives amid intensified Israeli operations against Iranian proxies and renewed diplomatic focus on deterrence and nonproliferation. Nicosia’s message aligns with states across the Eastern Mediterranean that view Iran’s trajectory as a shared challenge—and reinforces the strategic importance of Israel–Cyprus cooperation on energy, security, and crisis response. 

“He who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.” – Psalm 121:4

Israel has authorized Indonesia to conduct humanitarian airdrops to Gaza beginning next week, according to a report early Sunday, August 17.

While countries typically route approvals through the Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories, this green light reportedly came via the Prime Minister’s Office. Indonesia does not maintain diplomatic relations with Israel, though evolving contacts and statements by Jakarta’s leadership suggest potential shifts under certain conditions.

The move expands avenues for aid delivery as conflict conditions complicate ground logistics. Officials described the invitation to join airdrop efforts as open to any country willing to help feed civilians. For both Jerusalem and Jakarta, the operation could test limited cooperation mechanisms—strictly humanitarian in nature—even as political questions remain unresolved. 

“Lord, bless every effort that brings food, medicine, and relief to the suffering. Protect aid teams, clear the skies and paths before them, and let mercy reach every hungry child. May these acts of compassion open hearts, reduce hatred, and hasten the day when peace takes root.”

The suggestions, opinions, and scripture references made by VFI News writers and editors are based on the best information received.


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