IDF leader approves plans for 'next step' in Israel-Hamas war

Israeli soldiers move tanks at a staging area near the border with the Gaza Strip on Tuesday, Nov. 28. (AP/Ohad Zwigenberg)

The leader of the Israel Defense Forces on Wednesday has approved planes for the continuation of fighting in the war against Hamas.

Israeli army Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi said "We know what needs to be done, and are ready for the next step," according to IDF spokesperson Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari.

"The Chief of Staff today approved plans for the continuation of fighting in the Southern Command together with the Commander of the Southern Command and members of the General Staff Forum, in which he approved the attack plans for the continuation of the maneuver," Hagari wrote on X.

The announcement comes as a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas is set to expire in less than five hours.

Negotiators are trying to once again extend the agreement, which first went into effect Friday.