IDF Chief: All Gaza Plans Aim at Hamas Defeat, New Phase of War Beginning

During a briefing earlier today, IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir emphasized that every operational option the military presented to the security cabinet last week was designed to secure Hamas’s defeat. His remarks counter criticism that the army’s leadership was prioritizing the rescue of hostages over dismantling the terror organization.

“In accordance with the cabinet’s decision, we are at the outset of a new stage in the fighting in Gaza. We will develop the best method according to the defined objectives, while maintaining professionalism and the principles that guide our actions,” Zamir said, according to an IDF statement.

His comments come as the IDF prepares for a politically contentious move to capture Gaza City, following instructions from Israel’s leadership.

“We will do this according to the readiness of the forces and the weaponry, with the hostages in mind — we will do everything to preserve their lives and bring them home,” he stated.

Zamir noted that every alternative proposal given to the cabinet was “all intended to bring about the defeat of Hamas, with full understanding of the implications in all aspects.”

Reports have indicated that Zamir opposed the direct capture of Gaza City, advocating instead for a gradual encirclement of the area. Critics of such proposals argue they placed greater emphasis on recovering hostages than on eliminating Hamas.

“The IDF knows how to capture Gaza City, just as it knew how to capture Khan Younis and Rafah. Our forces maneuvered there in the past; we will know how to do so again,” Zamir asserted.

He also stressed the need to give both standing and reserve forces “breathing space” to ensure operations in Gaza are carried out “in the most efficient and optimal way, while preserving strength for the future.”