The IDF is waiting for the Israeli political leadership to make a decision about the next phase of the war in Gaza, stating that the military is nearing the completion of its operational objectives under the "Gideon's Chariots" offensive. While the IDF is still capable of capturing an additional 5–7% of the Gaza Strip, commanders say it's now up to the government to chart the path forward.
The campaign, which began several weeks ago, involved a strategy of slicing through Gaza at several key points. Using five divisions - four for offense and one for defense - the IDF divided the territory and replicated the Rafah combat model in every area it reached. As previously reported by Israel Hayom, the military has succeeded in taking control of 70–75% of the Strip.
With forces now approaching the centers of Palestinian cities and maintaining their positions in captured areas, the IDF anticipates an uptick in kidnapping attempts by Hamas. A senior source said, "Hamas has shifted to a strategy of sacrifice, marked by much greater audacity and close-quarters combat."
Military officials attribute this shift to the IDF's new operating method, which contrasts sharply with previous rounds of fighting. Instead of carrying out brief, targeted raids, the army is remaining inside urban areas and essentially besieging Hamas strongholds.
This tactic was evident last week in Khan Younis, where terrorists emerged from a tunnel, attacked an IDF vehicle, and attempted to abduct Reserve soldier Master Sergeant (res.) Abraham Azulay, a reservist who operated an armored bulldozer. Azulay fought back before being shot and killed. Troops in the area engaged the attackers with gunfire, striking multiple terrorists and successfully preventing the kidnapping.
