The Israeli military announced that Chief of Staff of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir, has approved the “main concept” for an attack plan in the Gaza Strip aimed at seizing control of Gaza City, which Israeli forces captured shortly after the war began in October 2023 before later withdrawing, reports Baltimore Chronicle citing Reuters.
According to media reports, the approval comes amid internal disagreements. General Zamir had previously expressed concerns about risks to hostages held by Hamas and the strain on reserve forces who require regular rest. Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and Minister for Strategic Affairs Israel Katz have publicly clashed with military leadership, including disputes over personnel appointments.
As Reuters notes, the plan envisions a new phase of the offensive aimed at military control over Gaza without permanent Israeli administration. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has emphasized that Israel does not intend to govern the enclave long-term.
However, critics — including 19 former senior officials and families of hostages — warn that a full occupation could complicate hostage negotiations and lead to prolonged insurgency. International mediators and hostage families insist that humanitarian agreements should be prioritized before expanding the military operation.
Meanwhile, airstrikes continue in the eastern part of Gaza City: according to Reuters, at least 11 people have been killed in recent bombardments. Hamas leader is currently in Cairo, attempting to resume ceasefire talks.
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