The IDF did not name the time frame of the operation in Gaza.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) will make every effort to return the 59 hostages held captive by the Palestinian Hamas group, IDF spokeswoman Anna Ukolova told Izvestia.

Military impacts: why Israel resumed its military operation in Gaza

The second stage of the hostage release deal with Hamas is in jeopardy.

"It is difficult to discuss the time frame now. There are many factors that can affect this," she added.

On March 19, Israel announced the start of a ground operation in the central and southern parts of the Palestinian enclave.

In particular, the IDF announced the expansion of control over the Netzarim corridor separating the northern and southern territories of the Gaza Strip.

Read more in the exclusive Izvestia article:

Counter risk: Israel did not mention the time frame of the operation in Gaza