Israel orders army to execute govt decisions on Gaza

ISRAELS military will have to execute any government decisions on Gaza, the defence minister said on Wednesday after reported disagreements over the prospect of a full occupation of the Palestinian territory.

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As the war nears its 23rd month, signs of a rift over Israel's strategy have emerged with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu preparing to announce a new plan.

Netanyahu was expected to convene his security cabinet yesterday to finalise a decision on the expansion of the offensive, Israeli media reported.

He has said Israel must “complete” the defeat of Palestinian militant group Hamas to secure the release of hostages still held in Gaza since the October 2023 attack that triggered the war.

The Israeli press, citing officials speaking on condition of anonymity, has predicted an escalation of operations,.

On Wednesday, the military issued a fresh evacuation call for parts of Gaza City, in the north, and Khan Yunis in the south, where a spokesman said ground troops were preparing to “expand the scope of combat operations”.

Media reports in Israel have said Netanyahu and his cabinet may order a full military occupation of Gaza, allegedly sparking dissension from armed forces chief Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir.