On the backdrop of cabinet deliberations over whether to expand the war in Gaza or pursue a hostage deal, the IDF announced Tuesday it is reinforcing forces in the Gaza Strip and redeploying the 98th Division to Gaza City.
Following months of combat, the 98th Division has launched a new operation in Gaza and is now operating in Gaza City in the northern part of the Strip alongside the 162nd Division. The forces are working in eastern Gaza City to deepen operational gains, dismantle terror infrastructure both above and below ground, and eliminate terrorists from various factions.
Ahead of the division’s reentry, the Israeli Air Force carried out dozens of strikes, killing scores of militants to enable the ground force’s advance. So far, around 100 terror targets have been struck, including militants, weapons depots, command centers, and enemy observation posts.
Strategic Meetings on Gaza
Earlier today, it was reported that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Defense Minister Israel Katz, and IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir are set to discuss both the hostage situation and ongoing IDF operations in Gaza. Proposals from the meeting are expected to be presented to the Security Cabinet on Thursday.
On Monday night, the Security Cabinet convened to assess recent developments in hostage negotiations and IDF activity in Gaza. No final decision was made, and while Israel’s political leadership still hopes for progress in talks, the IDF is preparing to escalate military operations if necessary.
Three Paths on the Table
The government is currently weighing three options regarding the future of the Gaza campaign: a full conquest of the Strip, a siege on Hamas, or a negotiated deal for the release of hostages. However, Ministers Itamar Ben Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich have voiced strong opposition to the concessions of a deal, demanding intensified military action instead.
