As previously reported, the Security Cabinet unanimously approved the operational plan proposed by the Chief of Staff to defeat Hamas in Gaza and secure the return of the hostages. A senior political source stated this morning (Monday) that the plan aligns with statements made by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in recent months.
“We are on the path to defeating Hamas, and this will assist in the return of the hostages,” said Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir during the discussion.
“On the Path to Defeating Hamas”
According to the official, the plan, which is expected to aid in the defeat of Hamas, includes the following key elements:
- Conquering the Gaza Strip and maintaining control over the territory
- Relocating the Gazan population southward for their protection
- Denying Hamas the ability to distribute humanitarian aid
- Intensifying airstrikes against Hamas targets
Defeating Hamas and Returning the Hostages
The Prime Minister stated during the discussion that this is a sound plan as it can achieve both objectives: defeating Hamas and bringing back the hostages.
The official emphasized that Netanyahu clarified how this plan differs from previous operations—it transitions from limited raids to capturing territory and maintaining a presence there. Netanyahu also reiterated his continued support for advancing the Trump Plan to facilitate the voluntary emigration of Gazans, noting that discussions on the matter are ongoing with several countries.
Additionally, a framework for the delivery of humanitarian aid was approved in principle. This aid will be managed by an international American foundation to ensure it does not reach Hamas. This decision follows recent tensions between Chief of Staff Zamir and political leaders over aid distribution. The plan is not set to be implemented immediately but has received preliminary approval for future use.
Shin Bet Director Ronen Bar was absent from the meeting and sent his deputy in his place.
The Cabinet approved overnight a procedure for bringing in humanitarian aid, if needed. It will be managed by an international American foundation with the explicit aim of preventing it from falling into Hamas hands. Again, the plan has only been approved in principle for future implementation.
‘Iron Fist’ Brigade Uncovers Weapons Cache 80 Meters from Former School
The ‘Iron Fist’ (205th) Brigade combat team continues its operational activities in the Rafah area. Yesterday, the IDF Spokesperson’s Unit reported that during these operations, forces uncovered weapons caches belonging to Gaza terror organizations located just 80 meters from a structure that once served as a school and about 100 meters from a building formerly used as a hospital in Rafah.
Over 100 Terror Targets Struck from the Air Over the Weekend
Over the weekend, the Israeli Air Force struck more than 100 targets belonging to terror groups across the Gaza Strip. Among the targets hit were terrorist cells, underground infrastructure, and military buildings used by militants.
Troops from the 252nd Division operated in the northern part of the Strip to locate and destroy terror infrastructure above and below ground. During these operations, they discovered Hamas weapons stockpiles and eliminated several terrorists identified in the area.
In southern Gaza, the 36th Division continued fighting in the Rafah area and along the ‘Morag Axis’. During these operations, forces located and destroyed weapons used by Hamas. In coordination with the Air Force, they eliminated terrorists and struck terror infrastructure both from the air and on the ground.
Simultaneously, forces from the Gaza Division (143rd) operated in the southern Strip, destroying dozens of terror sites and eliminating several militants.
IDF activity over the weekend in the Strip. Watch:
