The IDF is scheduled to complete by this evening the release of all army reservists who had been called up at the end of last week for a major anti-terrorism offensive in Gaza. The government decided last night to freeze the offensive, officially explaining that there was no point in carrying it out now that the Hamas terrorists had gone into hiding. Defense Minister Ben-Eliezer hinted, however, that details of the operation were leaked to the press, thus forcing the postponement. MK Michael Kleiner (Herut) raised a third possibility, saying today that the real reason for the cancellation was \"capitulation to American pressure.\" The offensive was originally planned following the suicide attack in Rishon LeTzion on Tuesday that claimed the lives of 15 Israelis.
Defense Minister Ben-Eliezer said at today\'s Cabinet meeting, \"Ever since the meeting [at which it was decided on Thursday night to conduct the offensive], a debate began in the media about the IDF\'s operational plans, in which Cabinet ministers and army officers took part. This was unnecessary, damaging, and endangered lives.\" He said that there was no international pressure to call off the offensive.
Defense Minister Ben-Eliezer said at today\'s Cabinet meeting, \"Ever since the meeting [at which it was decided on Thursday night to conduct the offensive], a debate began in the media about the IDF\'s operational plans, in which Cabinet ministers and army officers took part. This was unnecessary, damaging, and endangered lives.\" He said that there was no international pressure to call off the offensive.