Zamir’s remarks came against the backdrop of a stormy meeting of the Diplomatic-Security Cabinet, where Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich lashed out at Lt. Gen. Zamir and threatened to seek his dismissal.
Eyal Zamir has been instructed to present by Thursday a plan that meets the demands raised by cabinet ministers. Although he did not take part in the heated exchange between the ministers and the chief of staff, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu informed the military representatives of the requirement just minutes before the meeting concluded.
"This is a psychological measure designed to clearly demonstrate the consequences of October 7 to them. We harbor no illusions that this will awaken any sense of responsibility or remorse, but these images showing what happens to Israel's enemies will be permanently imprinted in their minds," Northern District Commander Shmuel Lavi said.
A single missile launched from Yemen early Wednesday morning activated warning systems across large areas of northern Israel; IDF says the missile was likely successfully intercepted.
Egypt is demanding that Hamas fully dismantle its armed capabilities in exchange for a five-year ceasefire and immunity for senior leaders. Meanwhile, the IDF is taking control of neighborhood after neighborhood in Rafah, expanding its hold in the northern Gaza Strip and preparing for even more intense military operations.
A senior Israeli official told Israel Hayom that no new proposal has been received from the mediators since the terrorist organization Hamas announced it was rejecting the Witkoff framework. He added that negotiations on a deal are still ongoing.
According to an Egyptian source, the meeting focused on recent developments and Hamas’ proposal regarding its willingness to reach a comprehensive deal that would end the war in Gaza.. The Israeli delegation also inquired about specific names of Israeli hostages.
Palestinians in Gaza have recently begun hunting sea turtles swimming near the shore; "It's a protein substitute for essential needs," a fisherman tells Arab media.
Sylvia Cunio arrived at the Gaza border and called out to her sons, David and Ariel: “Hear me, I’m waiting for you.” Vicky, the mother of Nimrod Cohen, added, “Your room is waiting for you - your friends, your family, we will not give up on you.” Ilana Gritzewsky, the partner of Matan Zangauker, said, “I hear your name and your voice everywhere. I need your hug beside me.”
Senior Hamas official Khalil al-Hayya says Israel’s offer "does not bring about an end to the war or a withdrawal from the Gaza Strip". Hamas is demanding a "comprehensive package" that would include the release of hostages in exchange for prisoners and "a complete cessation of hostilities".
