Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu did not allow the coalition party leaders' forum to discuss the new plan put forward by IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir regarding the continuation of fighting in the Gaza Strip, despite Zamir having already presented it to that forum. Netanyahu later also prevented the chief of staff from presenting the plan to the cabinet, Israel Hayom has learned.
Contrary to earlier reports, Zamir's plan does not call for a full reoccupation of the Strip or direct control over it. Instead, it proposes encircling most of Gaza, including sealing all entry and exit points, while continuing targeted raids, reducing troop fatigue, and working to weaken the terrorist organization Hamas and prevent it from rearming.
The barred presentation
While details of the plan remain classified, Zamir hinted at its nature during a visit to Gaza, telling soldiers the IDF would implement new operational models that enhance its strengths, reduce its vulnerabilities, and deepen operational gains. He said these steps would intensify pressure on Hamas and alleviate the strain on IDF forces.
The plan was initially presented to a select group that included coalition leaders, Defense Minister Israel Katz, and Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer. Ordinarily, such a presentation would be followed by a discussion within that forum and later be brought before the full Diplomatic-Security Cabinet for formal decision-making.
However, sources told Israel Hayom that Netanyahu not only blocked discussion of the plan in the smaller forum but also barred its presentation to the full cabinet.
Instead, Netanyahu is reportedly continuing to back the so-called "humanitarian city" proposal, which involves relocating hundreds of thousands of Gazans to the south of the Strip. Zamir, in closed-door sessions, is said to have described that approach as a "strategic mistake" and even a "strategic trap," arguing that the IDF should focus on dismantling Hamas rather than managing the welfare of Gaza's civilian population.
Two competing plans
As a result, two competing plans are now in play: Zamir's as-yet undisclosed operational blueprint aimed at maximizing surprise and efficiency while reducing troop presence, and the humanitarian city plan championed by Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich.
Despite the standoff, sources remain cautiously optimistic that a hostage deal could still materialize in the coming days, under heavy pressure from the US. If such a deal is reached, Zamir's plan could potentially be implemented after a 60-day ceasefire, assuming no breakthrough is made during that period.
If no deal is reached, his plan could be implemented sooner, assuming Netanyahu allows it to be discussed. As of now, the prime minister continues to obstruct any debate over the chief of staff's proposal and remains committed to the humanitarian city strategy.
The Prime Minister's Office has not yet issued a response.
