IDF Chief Warns Against Full Gaza Occupation Amid Security Cabinet Deliberations

IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir has expressed strong reservations regarding Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's proposal to fully occupy the Gaza Strip. Zamir warned that such an operation could entangle Israel in a prolonged conflict, expose soldiers to guerrilla warfare, and jeopardize the lives of the 50 hostages still held in Gaza, 20 of whom are believed to be alive.

The proposed plan aims to dismantle Hamas and pressure the group into releasing the hostages following the breakdown of ceasefire negotiations. It involves a four- to five-month military campaign focusing on Gaza City and central areas, potentially displacing around half of Gaza's population southward toward the Mawasi humanitarian zone.

Families of the hostages have voiced strong opposition to the plan, fearing it would endanger their loved ones. Some relatives staged a protest by sailing toward Gaza, calling for international assistance to secure the hostages' release.

Despite internal dissent, Netanyahu is expected to secure a majority within the security cabinet to approve the operation. The cabinet is scheduled to convene Thursday evening to deliberate on the proposal.

Zamir emphasized the importance of open debate within the Israel Defense Forces, stating that a culture of disagreement is vital to the organization's integrity. He affirmed that the IDF would continue to express its positions independently and professionally.

The United Nations has expressed concern over the potential humanitarian consequences of a full-scale occupation, warning of catastrophic outcomes for Gaza's civilian population.