Israel's Chief of Staff slams Gaza “humanitarian city” plan as unrealistic and harmful

Israel's Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir has told ministers that the "humanitarian city" project in southern Gaza is unfeasible and does not align with the objectives of the war, Caliber.Az reports, citing Israeli media.

Earlier, it was reported that the army opposed the plans for a “humanitarian city” intended to house 600,000 Palestinians in Rafah.

Zamir outlined the main issues to the ministers: the project is expensive, time-consuming, and could harm the ongoing negotiations for the release of hostages.

In response, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu criticised Zamir and demanded that he present an alternative plan by the next day—one that would be compact, quick, and cost-effective.

Channel 12 has now quoted Zamir's specific remarks during a recent meeting attended by Netanyahu, Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich:

“This is an unfeasible project,” said the IDF Chief of Staff. “It has more holes than cheese. You can try to do anything, but what’s the goal? This project has an endless number of problems, and I’m not sure it aligns with the goals of the war.”

The Israeli government is pushing forward with the project it calls a “humanitarian city.” Critics have likened it to a “concentration camp,” warning that it could serve as a preparatory step toward the forced transfer of Palestinians.

The political leadership claims the purpose of the city is to concentrate Gaza’s civilian population, separate it from terrorists, provide humanitarian services, and help isolate Hamas and increase pressure on the organisation.

However, some within the security establishment hold a different view.

By Khagan Isayev