Israel News for 2-3-2025
News Update
The IDF expanded counter terror operation in Judea and Samaria yesterday. Forces demolished buildings in the center of Jenin, used for terror operations, and entered the Palestinian village of Tamun, a hotbed of terror activity. The operation has eliminated around 50 terrorists, arrested over 100 terror suspects and confiscated and destroyed hundreds of weapons and explosive devices.
Israeli hostages Keith Siegel, 65, Ofer Calderon, 54, and Yarden Bibas, 35 were released on Saturday. Abu Marzook, Hamas’ deputy political leader, along with a Hamas delegation is visiting Moscow to meet with Russian officials. He told Russian media that Hamas would release hostage Alexander (Sasha) Trupanov in phase 1 of the deal, even though he is a soldier, as a goodwill gesture to Russia. Trupanov, 29, who holds Russian citizenship, was kidnapped on October 7 along with his mother, grandmother and girlfriend, Sapir Cohen, from their home in Kibbutz Nir Oz. The 3 women were release in the first hostage deal. Meanwhile, the Palestinian Authority has taken over the running of the Rafah Crossing.
Prime Minister Netanyahu is in Washington. He will meet with White House Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff today and with President Trump tomorrow evening.
Major General (Res.) Eyal Zamir has been appointed as the new IDF Chief of Staff. In his first speech since his appointment, Zamir said that despite the cease-fires in Lebanon and Gaza, “the year 2025 will continue to be a year of combat.” Zamir’s appointment as chief of staff still requires approval from the Advisory Committee for Senior Appointments, and final government approval. Assuming these are secured, Zamir, who was already considered the leading candidate, is expected to assume his role next month, following the resignation of outgoing Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi. With this appointment, Zamir will become the first tank officer to serve as Chief of Staff since David (Dado) Elazar in the 1970s. For more, click here.
