What It Is About
A group of Israeli reservist commanders and soldiers, known as the “Forum of Reservist Commanders and Fighters,” released a detailed plan on Wednesday aimed at decisively defeating Hamas. The plan argues that the current counterterrorism operations are insufficient to coerce the terror group into surrendering or releasing hostages.
Why It Matters
The proposed plan, outlines a two-phase military operation and addresses international legal concerns, aiming to ensure the liberation of hostages and the ultimate defeat of Hamas. The approach is viewed as a necessary and decisive step to secure Israeli safety and sovereignty.
The Plan
The document, titled “The Generals’ Plan,” was spearheaded by retired Maj. Gen. Giora Eiland and supported by other senior officers. The plan calls for the evacuation of approximately 300,000 civilians from the northern Gaza Strip, including Gaza city, within one week via secure IDF corridors. Following the evacuation, the area would be placed under a comprehensive military siege, presenting Hamas with the choice to surrender or face destruction. The forum emphasizes that this strategy complies with international law as civilians would be given an opportunity to evacuate.
Key Insights and Support
Col. (Res.) Hazi Nechama, one of the forum’s founders, stresses that as long as Hamas controls humanitarian aid, it cannot be defeated. Maj. Gen. Giora Eiland noted that restricting aid was pivotal in a recent successful hostage deal. He suggested the plan might replicate similar success across Gaza, including in Rafah.
Urgency for Implementation
Col. (Res.) Hazi Nechama, chairman of the forum, emphasized, “The Generals’ Plan is the only viable path to defeating Hamas and securing the release of hostages. It should have been implemented months ago.” In light of recent tragic events, where six hostages were brutally murdered, the forum urges the IDF and the Israeli government to adopt the plan immediately, regarding any delay as a significant dereliction of duty.
This story was first published on ynetnews.com.