IDF Chief’s Dire Warning: Gaza Plan Risks Hostages and Soldiers
IDF Chief Eyal Zamir fiercely opposed the cabinet’s plan to occupy Gaza City, warning of risks to hostages and soldiers, but the government approved the operation.
Israel’s Chief of General Staff, Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir, has waged a relentless campaign against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s plan to occupy Gaza City, warning it endangers hostages, soldiers, and Israel’s international standing. Senior ministers, speaking after a heated cabinet meeting on September 1, 2025, said Zamir “did everything he could” to sway the government, presenting data-driven arguments in recent weeks. Despite his efforts, the cabinet approved the operation, dubbed “Gideon’s Chariots B,” prompting a massive reserve mobilization, the largest since the war began, set for September 2. Zamir stressed he would execute orders but maintained, “There are more suitable actions” to achieve war goals.
In the cabinet session, Zamir sharply criticized the plan, saying, “Good morning, Eliyahu, you are the October 7 cabinet. Why have IDF forces kept entering and exiting for two years?” He presented a comparative analysis, arguing his alternative, siege tactics and targeted raids, would risk fewer lives, require less manpower, and cause less humanitarian fallout than a full occupation. “In every parameter, soldiers’ lives, hostages’ lives, manpower, humanitarian issues, and international legitimacy, my proposal is better,” he told ministers. Yet, most dismissed his plan, believing it wouldn’t defeat Hamas.
Zamir warned that occupying Gaza City could lead to IDF governance of 2.1 million Palestinians, a “military administration” he fears. “You’re heading toward a military government. Understand the implications,” he told the cabinet. Far-right Minister Itamar Ben Gvir suggested “encouraging voluntary migration” instead, while Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich rebuffed Zamir, saying, “We’ve made a decision.” Ben Gvir added, “We understand,” and proposed a vote to prove lack of support for a phased hostage deal, which offers 10 living hostages and 18 bodies for a 60-day ceasefire and hundreds of Palestinian prisoners’ release.
Mossad chief David Barnea backed a partial deal, urging, “We must not miss the opportunity to free hostages.” Netanyahu, however, cited a limited “political window” from the U.S., arguing a partial withdrawal would delay operations by six months, not two, if fighting resumes. The IDF controls 75% of Gaza, but Zamir fears prolonged occupation could trap forces in guerrilla warfare, risking hostages and straining resources.