Israeli Army pushes for expanded Gaza control in new war strategy

The Chief of Staff of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir, has submitted a comprehensive new operational plan to Israel’s political leadership as a contingency in the event that ceasefire talks concerning the Gaza Strip collapse.

This proposal—dubbed the “Gaza Seizure Plan” by insiders—has been positively received among government officials. It is viewed as a strategic alternative to the previously suggested “humanitarian city” initiative centered on Rafah, which some officials argue conflicts with the overarching military objectives, Caliber.Az reports, citing Israeli media.

The plan calls for the IDF to seize and maintain control over a significantly larger portion of Gaza, coupled with a substantial military build-up throughout the enclave. Israeli military leadership believes this approach will decisively advance two critical goals of the ongoing conflict: securing the release of hostages held by Hamas and crippling the militant group’s operational capabilities.

“Instead of opposing the humanitarian city concept, which contradicts the aims of the war, we must dedicate ourselves to a plan that effectively furthers these objectives,” stated senior Israeli officials, emphasizing a shift in strategic priorities.

Within the corridors of power, there is growing pressure on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to greenlight the plan’s implementation. However, sources close to the Prime Minister suggest that Netanyahu remains resolute in pursuing a negotiated settlement with Hamas in the near term, balancing military imperatives with diplomatic efforts.

By Vafa Guliyeva