Tensions peak between Netanyahu and military over Gaza war strategy

According to Haaretz, citing informed sources, Netanyahu told military officials in multiple sessions that they were expressing “exaggerated concerns.”

The paper reported that IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir told ministers that applying more military pressure on Hamas would inevitably lead to higher casualties among soldiers, increase the death toll of Israeli captives, and further strain reserve forces.

Haaretz added that the occupation of Rafah resulted in the deaths of Israeli captives and soldiers but did not lead to their release. The newspaper further noted that military commanders have voiced concern that Netanyahu consistently ignores their professional advice during meetings.

Amid Israel’s continued assaults on the Gaza Strip and as the war approaches its second year, reports point to growing dissatisfaction and breakdown within the ranks of the occupying army.

Earlier, Army Radio reported that tensions between Zamir and the political leadership had “reached their peak,” with politicians demanding the military present a clear plan for continuing the war on Gaza.