Netanyahu Opposes Zamir’s Request to Continue the War

The Hebrew-language newspaper Maariv wrote that “Herzi Halevi,” the Chief of Staff of the Army, has for days been requesting a discussion meeting to present plans for continuing the war in Gaza. However, “Benjamin Netanyahu,” the Prime Minister, has prevented the meeting requested by Halevi and is obstructing the presentation and approval of plans for the war in Gaza.

Maariv, citing a political source, also reported that the army does not know what the political leadership wants, adding that the continuation of the mission will have negative consequences.

Maariv further stated that front-line Israeli army units are severely deteriorating, and the expansion of the war in Gaza will have long-term effects on the units and soldiers.

The newspaper, quoting senior security officials, added that the army is experiencing increasing frustration due to the lack of clarity regarding political objectives and the continuation of the mission without a clear outlook.

They stated that “the objectives of Operation Gideon have been achieved,” and that only Netanyahu and “Ron Dermer,” the regime’s Strategic Affairs Minister, are aware of the political agreements concerning the future of the war.

Military sources have also warned that continuing the war in its current form will lead to “negative outcomes,” pointing to the severe reduction in army units on the front lines and the potential long-term effects on the morale and operational readiness of the forces.

These developments come as indirect negotiations with Hamas have failed, and both internal and international pressure on Israel to end the war is mounting, amid growing questions regarding the absence of a clear strategy from the political leadership.

On Friday, during a field visit to the Gaza Strip, Halevi emphasized to field commanders that the army would continue to exert “constant pressure on Hamas until every prisoner has returned home”—a message that appears to be a tacit response to the political leadership’s delay in formulating an agreement.

Meanwhile, protests by the families of Israeli prisoners continue, with demonstrations held almost daily in front of government offices, demanding an agreement for the return of their loved ones.

It is estimated that 50 prisoners remain in Gaza, some alive and some deceased.