Recent discussions between the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) and political leaders have revealed a shift in strategy for the ongoing war in Gaza. The IDF has emphasized that its two primary objectives—securing the release of hostages and dismantling Hamas—cannot be achieved simultaneously and must be pursued in stages.
According to military officials, the immediate focus must be on bringing the hostages home, followed by efforts to neutralize Hamas. Despite earlier claims that Hamas had been significantly weakened, the IDF now acknowledges that the group remains operational and that its defeat is still a necessary goal.
IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi presented three potential paths forward:
1. Negotiating a Deal – The preferred option to secure the hostages' release.
2. Full Occupation of Gaza – A more aggressive approach involving complete military control.
3. Limited Military Operations – Avoiding dense urban areas where hostages might be held.
Additionally, the IDF confirmed that out of 14 senior Hamas leaders in Gaza at the start of the war—key planners of the October 7 attack—10 have been killed, leaving four remaining. These surviving leaders could potentially be expelled as part of future negotiations.
The Israeli government now faces a critical decision on how to proceed, balancing the urgency of hostage recovery with the long-term goal of dismantling Hamas.
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