Tel aviv: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's proposal to fully reoccupy the Gaza Strip is creating significant tension between the nation's political and military leaders.
According to Anadolu Agency, Netanyahu has reportedly secured backing from the United States for his plan, which involves launching military operations in areas believed to be holding captives. However, this strategy is being contested by Israel's Army Chief of Staff, Eyal Zamir, who has expressed concerns that such a move could jeopardize hostages and lead to a prolonged conflict.
The disagreement has highlighted a rift within Israel's leadership, further exacerbated by accusations from Netanyahu's son, Yair, who has claimed that Zamir is plotting a 'mutiny.' In a closed-door meeting, Zamir described Netanyahu's plan as a 'trap' that could drain military resources and harm hostages. Instead, he proposed sealing off Gaza and tightening the blockade while increasing airstrikes against Hamas targets to pressure the group into releasing hostages.
Despite opposition, Netanyahu remains firm on his reoccupation plan. Media sources suggest Zamir is considering resignation, having reportedly stated he has 'only one bullet left in my mouth.' Defense Minister Israel Katz has defended Zamir's right to voice concerns, amid social media accusations from Yair Netanyahu of a 'mutiny and military coup.'
Frictions are not limited to the top brass. According to Yedioth Ahronoth, a heated argument occurred between Air Force Chief Tomer Bar and Southern Command Chief Yaniv Asor during a recent security assessment. Asor advocated for intensified strikes across Gaza, while Bar criticized these requests as 'unprofessional.' The disagreement escalated until Zamir intervened, asking Asor to moderate his tone. The army confirmed the incident but declined further comment.
As tensions rise, opposition leader Yair Golan has called for nationwide protests and an economic shutdown in opposition to Netanyahu's plan. Golan urged citizens to disrupt the economy until the government agrees to hold elections, warning of 'heavy human and financial losses' if the reoccupation proceeds.
Netanyahu's plan surfaces amid a stalemate in indirect negotiations between Israel and Hamas for a ceasefire and prisoner exchange. Talks were abandoned after disagreements over troop withdrawal, prisoner release, and humanitarian aid.
A recent poll by the Israeli Institute for National Security Studies indicates that 52% of Israelis hold the government responsible for the negotiation impasse. Hamas has expressed willingness to release all Israeli hostages if Israel ends the war, withdraws from Gaza, and releases Palestinian detainees. However, opposition leaders and hostage families claim Netanyahu is delaying a comprehensive deal to maintain his coalition.
Israel's war on Gaza has drawn international criticism, with over 61,100 casualties reported since October 2023. Last year, the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant for war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza. The country also faces a genocide case at the International Court of Justice.