What it is about
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu informed lawmakers on Monday that he is seriously considering the “generals’ plan,” an initiative proposed by senior IDF reservists to impose a siege on northern Gaza. This measure aims to disrupt Hamas’s operational capabilities and facilitate the rescue of hostages.
Why it matters
Embracing a strategic siege can shift the balance in Gaza, further weakening Hamas’s influence and potentially aiding in the liberation of hostages. This tough stance reinforces Israel’s commitment to its security and emphasizes its efforts to dismantle terrorist strongholds.
The Plan Details
During the discussion with the Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee, Netanyahu provided insights—revealing that of the 97 remaining hostages, approximately half are believed to be alive. This bleak statistic heightens the urgency for decisive action.
Sources noted that the plan, advocated last week by retired Maj. Gen. Giora Eiland, could radically alter the reality in Gaza. It suggests giving northern Gaza residents one week to evacuate before it is declared a military zone. The proposal aims to apply significant pressure on Hamas by cutting off supplies and isolating the region.
Eiland’s Perspective
Eiland emphasized that controlling northern Gaza through a siege complies with international law and would challenge both the dignity and territorial claims of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar. He critiqued Israel’s current Gaza strategies, emphasizing that as long as Hamas controls essential resources, they can recruit and sustain their operations.
Political Support
During the closed-door session, Likud MK Amit Halevi expressed his endorsement, accentuating the necessity of controlling the land and population to defeat Hamas. Halevi argued that curbing Hamas’s civil control is vital for a hostage deal, leveraging added pressure to prompt negotiations.
Netanyahu also stipulated that managing humanitarian aid in Gaza is crucial for victory, proposing that a military regime might temporarily be essential despite its initial reluctance.
Additional Context
In a context of heightened regional tension, Netanyahu sidestepped addressing MK Gideon Sa’ar’s rejection of the defense minister role, which he cited due to escalating conflict with Hezbollah. Despite this, Netanyahu predicted imminent arrest warrants by the International Criminal Court (ICC) for himself and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, labeling ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan’s actions as politically driven.
Netanyahu refuted accusations of hindering a Gaza hostage deal, arguing that Hamas’s repeated demands and evasiveness are the real obstacles. He contended that increasing pressure on Hezbollah could have a direct impact on compelling Hamas to negotiate.
Recent Developments
The recent escalation has extended Hezbollah’s rocket attacks to broader areas, including greater Haifa and the Jezreel Valley, endangering two million Israeli civilians. In response, the IDF reported numerous defensive actions following approximately 150 rocket and drone attacks.
At a critical juncture, calls for answers persist, chief among them a resolution to the link between northern operations and Gaza, and assurances for the safe return of hostages. Netanyahu’s stringent approach stresses his commitment to securing Israel and reaffirming its territorial safety.
This story was first published on timesofisrael.com.