IDF Proposes ‘Gaza Takeover Plan’ as Hostage Talks Stall: Cabinet Pushes for Action
The IDF has proposed an aggressive plan to seize more Gaza territory to pressure Hamas if hostage talks fail, but Prime Minister Netanyahu has prioritized diplomacy. The strategy, which aims to secure hostages and defeat Hamas, has sparked debate over its risks and feasibility.
IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir presented a bold contingency plan to political leaders, dubbed the “Gaza takeover plan,” as ceasefire negotiations with Hamas falter in Doha, Qatar. The strategy, revealed by Yaron Avraham on Channel 12’s weekend broadcast, proposes intensifying military operations far beyond current levels, aiming to seize and hold significantly more territory in Gaza than the IDF currently controls. The plan, designed to pressure Hamas, would see the IDF progressively dominate more areas, signaling to the terrorist group that “every day works to its detriment” as Israel expands its grip. Zamir dismissed the previously proposed humanitarian city concept as “more porous than Swiss cheese,” arguing it undermines war goals. Cabinet ministers who reviewed the plan responded enthusiastically, with some questioning why it isn’t being prioritized. “Instead of focusing on a humanitarian city that harms war objectives, we should seriously discuss a plan that advances them,” a senior cabinet source stated.
The IDF believes this aggressive approach would accelerate two key objectives: securing the release of the 50 remaining hostages from Hamas’s October 7, 2023, attack, which killed 1,200 Israelis, and decisively defeating Hamas’s military capabilities. However, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reportedly instructed to “put the plan on hold,” prioritizing efforts to exhaust possibilities for a hostage deal, which includes a 60-day ceasefire and comprehensive terms to end the war.
Critics within the cabinet argue, “We need to seriously discuss this alternative and prepare for all scenarios, rather than chasing artificial, unfeasible solutions if talks with Hamas collapse.” The plan’s risks, including potential threats to hostages from expanded operations, remain a concern, recalling earlier IDF warnings. Social media posts on X reflect frustration, with one user noting, “Hamas plays games while our hostages suffer, time for decisive action.” The IDF declined to comment, leaving the plan’s future uncertain as Israel balances military strategy with diplomatic efforts amidst ongoing clashes and 888 Israeli deaths since October 2023.