IDF halts Gaza strikes amid debate over policy and Hamas disarmament

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have scaled back their strikes in Gaza after a period of intensified operations over the past two weeks, which saw a corresponding rise in fatalities. This shift in policy follows a series of targeted killings aimed at Hamas's military wing, which IDF statistics indicate resulted in the deaths of around 500 militants since a ceasefire took effect.

“

This is a complete lie. The IDF did not bring a single targeted killing for approval over the past week.

Discrepancies have emerged regarding the reasons for the recent reduction in operations. Defense officials confirmed that opportunities to strike Hamas operatives were missed in the past week due to government policy. However, senior political officials have refuted this, calling it a "complete lie" and asserting that the IDF did not seek approval for any targeted killings in the past week.

International pressure, reportedly exerted by Hamas leadership through various countries including Qatar, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia, along with entities like the Board of Peace, is said to have influenced the halt in targeted killings. This pressure reportedly led to American involvement, culminating in the complete cessation of these operations this week.

“

Israel rejects the 15-point document. The IDF will not carry out any withdrawal until Hamas is genuinely disarmed and will continue to eliminate threats against our forces and our citizens.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the situation, stating that Israel rejects a 15-point document and will not carry out any withdrawal until Hamas is genuinely disarmed. He emphasized the need for "genuine disarmament, not fictitious disarmament," and indicated ongoing discussions with the Americans on the matter. Despite these statements, defense officials highlight the need for specific actions to ensure Netanyahu's remarks are meaningful, including preventing foreign influences from entering Gaza and barring a technocratic committee from the area, which they fear Hamas could manipulate.

“

And when I say disarming Hamas, that means the heavy weapons, the less heavy weapons, all the weapons. And we are talking about genuine disarmament, not fictitious disarmament. We are now discussing this issue with the Americans.