A high-ranking defense official gave a detailed briefing on the upcoming phase of military operations in Gaza, named “Operation Gideon’s Chariots.” He clarified that the mission’s ultimate objective is “to defeat and subdue Hamas in Gaza and release all hostages.”
The official explained that the strategy was developed by the IDF Chief of Staff and top commanders, and it has received the green light from both the Defense Minister and the Prime Minister. “In accordance with the plan formulated by the Chief of Staff and the IDF Command and approved by the Minister of Defense and the Prime Minister, the IDF will increase its forces and act forcefully to defeat and subdue Hamas and destroy its military and governmental capabilities, while creating strong pressure for the release of all the hostages. A strong protective envelope will be provided to the forces maneuvering from land, air, and sea, while using heavy equipment to neutralize explosive devices and destroy threatening structures.”
A core component of the strategy, the source added, involves minimizing civilian casualties and separating the civilian population from combatants. “A central component of the plan is the broad evacuation of the entire Gazan population from the fighting zones, including northern Gaza, to areas in southern Gaza, while creating a separation between them and Hamas terrorists – in order to allow the IDF operational freedom of action. Unlike in the past, the IDF will remain in any area that is conquered, in order to prevent the return of terrorism, and will handle any area that is cleared in accordance with the Rafah model, where all threats were eliminated and it became part of the security zone.”
He also addressed concerns about humanitarian needs during the operation, saying a carefully monitored plan has been designed to ensure aid reaches civilians without strengthening Hamas. “A humanitarian plan will be implemented, as presented yesterday by the IDF and approved by the cabinet, that distinguishes between the aid and Hamas by using civilian companies and designating areas that will be secured by the IDF. This includes a sterile zone in the Rafah area beyond the Morag route, where entrants will be screened by the IDF to prevent Hamas operatives from gaining access.”
The official emphasized that the IDF will not launch the full-scale ground operation until President Donald Trump finishes his regional trip in ten days. That window, he said, provides Hamas with one last opportunity to agree to the terms of a hostage deal. “The military’s preparations ahead of the ground maneuver will create a window of opportunity — until the end of the US president’s visit—for a hostage deal under the ‘Witkoff model.’ In such a scenario, Israel will seek to retain territory that has been cleared and incorporated into the buffer zone beyond the March lines. Under any temporary or permanent arrangement, Israel will not withdraw from the security buffer zone around Gaza, which is intended to protect Israeli communities and prevent weapons from being smuggled to Hamas.”
He concluded with a warning: if Hamas refuses to accept a deal within the timeframe, the full-scale assault will commence. “If no hostage deal is reached, Operation ‘Gideon’s Chariots’ will begin with great force and will not end until all its objectives are achieved.”
{Matzav.com Israel}