Israel’s Katz Presses Army to Enforce Cabinet Plan for Gaza

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz stated that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) must "execute" any decisions made by the government regarding Gaza, including a possible full reoccupation of the enclave. His remarks, delivered on 6 August and reiterated on 8 August, follow media reports of friction between the political leadership and senior commanders over the next phase of the war against Hamas. Israeli press accounts said IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir warned in closed meetings that a complete occupation of Gaza could be "walking into a trap" and proposed more limited operations. Katz responded publicly that while commanders may voice objections in the proper forums, they are duty-bound to carry out cabinet directives "with determination and professionalism." Two days after Katz’s comments, Zamir told reporters the military is already preparing a new plan to establish control over Gaza and will implement it "in the best possible way," signalling an outward show of unity despite earlier reservations. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is expected to convene the security cabinet to formalise the next stage of the campaign. The debate unfolds against the backdrop of international concern over the humanitarian toll of the conflict. Palestinian authorities say Israeli operations have killed more than 61,000 people in Gaza since fighting resumed in October 2023, and United Nations agencies warn of looming famine for the territory’s two million residents.