Israeli Military and Political Tensions Reach Boiling Point
JERUSALEM — In a dramatic escalation of tensions, Israel’s military chief has directly confronted Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over plans to expand the Gaza war, according to two Israeli officials who spoke to CNN.
Tens of thousands of Israeli reservists have begun reporting for duty in preparation for a massive operation, despite IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir voicing reservations about the decision to take over Gaza City after almost two years of conflict.
During recent security cabinet meetings, Zamir challenged the decision to carry out the offensive, citing risks to Israeli hostages in Gaza and to soldiers on the ground. He also raised concerns about displacing up to one million Palestinians and the potential humanitarian consequences.
At a stormy meeting on Sunday, Zamir urged ministers to consider a ceasefire proposal accepted by Hamas, but Netanyahu chose not to address it. The IDF chief warned that taking over Gaza City could lead to a full military occupation of the Gaza Strip.
Netanyahu dismissed Zamir’s reservations and refused to discuss a partial ceasefire deal, opting for a comprehensive agreement that includes the release of all Israeli hostages.
Disagreements between Zamir and the government have deepened in recent weeks, with some ministers supporting his position while others accuse him of weakness.
The clash reflects ongoing tensions between Netanyahu’s government and the military, with the prime minister’s far-right allies criticizing the army’s approach in Gaza and the West Bank.
Zamir’s opposition to expanding the war has intensified tensions, leading to calls for his resignation from some of Netanyahu’s allies.
Hundreds of IDF Reservists Refuse Orders
A group of Israeli reservists has announced they will refuse to report for duty for the planned military operation to seize Gaza City, citing concerns for Israeli hostages and the humanitarian toll of the war.
The group, known as “Soldiers for Hostages,” held a news conference in Tel Aviv to express their opposition to the offensive.
Spokesperson Yotam Vilk stated that the movement began in response to Netanyahu’s handling of hostage negotiations and the risks posed to Israeli captives in Gaza.
While their main focus is on securing hostage releases, the group also opposes the ongoing war in Gaza, questioning its objectives and legality.
In a letter to the Military Advocate General, the group called for the Gaza City offensive to be halted, labeling the order as illegal and morally unjustifiable.
As of now, the group has not received a response to their plea. — CNN
