Military leader indicates potential hostage agreement imminent, or escalation of conflict could occur
In a recent development, Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir, the Chief of the General Staff of the Israeli Defense Forces, has outlined a new combat plan for the Gaza Strip. The plan, if approved, would involve a phased, intensified ground offensive with the objective of seizing and maintaining control over a significantly larger portion of Gaza [2][3][1].
During a field tour in the Gaza Strip, Zamir highlighted the impressive accomplishments of Operation 'Gideon's Chariots' and expressed his confidence in its unprecedented achievements [1]. He also emphasized the need for persistence, adaptation, proper preparation, and timely action to maximize advantages, reduce operational vulnerabilities, and increase pressure on Hamas.
The new combat plan is designed to systematically strike Hamas terrorist infrastructure through intelligence-driven, precise firepower and maneuver operations. The focus will be on sensitive areas, including refugee camps, which have previously been avoided due to the presence of Israeli hostages. The aim is to achieve the war’s objectives while protecting Israeli communities and managing troop fatigue [2][3][1].
However, Zamir has expressed concerns that expanding attacks could endanger the hostages, and he has indicated he would not approve such moves without clear political orders [2][3][1]. The plan is being considered as a contingency if ceasefire and hostage release negotiations fail, with implementation pending political approval.
Zamir's plan underscores a more substantial and methodical military effort to gain and hold larger areas in Gaza, while balancing the risks to hostages and the ongoing diplomatic efforts for a negotiated settlement [2][3][1]. The plan was discussed during the tour, which was attended by several commanders, including the Commander of the Southern Command, Major General Yaniv Asor, and the Commander of the 162nd Division, Brigadier General Sagiv Dahan [1].
If a deal is not reached, combat in the Gaza Strip will continue without rest, according to Zamir [1]. The accomplishments of Operation 'Gideon's Chariots' have provided operational flexibility for future actions, ensuring that the Israeli Defense Forces are prepared for any eventuality.
The new combat plan, if approved, will not only focus on typical war-and-conflicts operations but also prioritize striking Hamas terrorist infrastructure, even in sensitive areas like refugee camps, as a part of the political news landscape. The plan, however, expresses concerns about the safety of Israeli hostages, demonstrating Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir's consideration for both military action and diplomatic negotiations in the ongoing Gaza Strip situation.
