Israel is still having difficulty deciding on the question of continuing the war in Gaza: In parallel with the discussion in the political-security cabinet about exhausting the current phase of Operation 'Gideon's Chariot', the IDF has increased pressure in the northern Gaza Strip over the past 24 hours - with an emphasis on Gaza City.
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According to a report this evening (Monday) in 'Kan News', Gaza City - the most significant stronghold left for Hamas after Khan Yunis - is now in the crosshairs.
In the past 24 hours, the air force has carried out extensive attacks on the city, the Shati camp, and Tupah. Palestinians reported dozens of deaths in the attacks.
This morning, the IDF spokesman issued evacuation notices in Arabic to Gaza residents, a step that usually comes before the expansion of the ground maneuver.
The IDF says that Hamas has two functioning brigades left: the Gaza City Brigade and the Central Camps Brigade. Some of the terrorists are in these locations and others have fled to the humanitarian zone in Moassi.
Among cabinet members, and also within the military echelon, a disagreement arose over whether to move toward conquering additional territories in the Gaza Strip or toward a hostage deal.
At the beginning of the meeting held today, the Chief of Staff presented the situation: "We are holding approximately 751,000 tons of Gaza territory, a decision is needed to continue the journey.".
Zamir and retired Major General Nitzan Alon told the ministers that deepening the maneuver could endanger the hostages.
According to the Channel 14 report, the army presented three scenarios:
The first - a complete occupation of the Strip, including the heavy price that was presented - a large number of casualties of kidnapped and fighters and the high cost of imposing military rule.
The second - which the IDF has expressed widespread support for - is to reach a deal to release the hostages.
The third is a blockade of the Gaza Strip until surrender. This move is strongly opposed by the Legal Advisor to the Government and the Chief Military Attorney.
At one point, the discussion reached a high pitch, with National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir remarking to the Chief of Staff: "The IDF's job is to gallop forward." Zamir was not left unfulfilled and furious: "With all due respect, that's exactly what we're doing.".
In response, the Prime Minister was forced to intervene and calm things down.
A source involved in the negotiations on the Hatupim deal says that so far, despite the statements, there has been no progress on the issue. He says that Hamas is not willing to compromise and it seems that everyone is waiting to see what US President Donald Trump is planning.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is working to advance his visit to the United States so that it will take place as early as early next week.
Netanyahu's entourage says these are "crucial days.".
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