Israeli media, citing informed sources, have reported that critical strategic decisions are expected to be made this week, described as a “decisive” or “pivotal” moment in the nearly two-year-long war against the Gaza Strip. These upcoming decisions, they claim, may significantly alter the course of the conflict.
According to the Israeli news outlet Walla, a senior Israeli official stated that no final decision has yet been made regarding a shift in the negotiations. However, he warned that Israel now stands at what he described as a “crossroads,” accusing Hamas of stalling and refraining from genuine engagement, though he added this stance might soon change.
The official confirmed that the partial deal involving a proposed 60-day ceasefire remains on the table.
Meanwhile, Israel’s Channel 12 reported concerns of a potential clash between the military and political leadership in Israel, with disagreements escalating behind the scenes.
The Israeli Public Broadcasting Corporation also quoted sources saying that the Israeli army disapproves of the political leadership’s moves and is unhappy with the intention to expand ground operations in Gaza.
In a related development, The Jerusalem Post cited military sources confirming that Israeli Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi had cancelled a scheduled trip to the United States, originally planned for Tuesday. His visit is now reportedly conditioned upon achieving a permanent ceasefire in Gaza.
Shift in Strategy: Mossad’s Failures Lead to Shabak Takeover
In another revelation, Maariv reported a notable shift in Israel’s management of the war against Hamas leaders abroad. Following accusations of negligence against the Mossad for its failure to eliminate Hamas leadership in exile, the Israeli internal security agency Shabak (Shin Bet) has established a special unit to track and assassinate Hamas figures in Arab and European countries—despite this falling outside Shabak’s traditional jurisdiction.
This signals rising internal tension and desperation within the Israeli security establishment.
Admission of Failure: Strategic Goals Unmet
According to Maariv, Israel finds itself at one of its lowest strategic points since the start of the confrontation, having failed to achieve its two declared war goals:
- The release of 50 Israeli captives still held by Hamas.
- The removal of Hamas from power in Gaza.
These failures have sparked public and institutional criticism, casting doubt over the entire military campaign.
On Friday, Chief of Staff Halevi visited the Israeli 162nd Division deployed in Gaza. This unit has been fighting continuously since the launch of Operation “Chariots of Gideon” on 7 October 2023, with operations extending across Jabalia, Beit Hanoun, Beit Lahia, and northern Gaza neighborhoods. Israeli media claim that the division is nearing the completion of its mission to destroy areas under its control in the northern part of the Strip.
Families of Captive Soldiers Break Silence
Adding further pressure, the families of Israeli captives in Gaza have issued a public plea to Prime Minister Netanyahu’s government, demanding an end to what they called the “madness” in Gaza, and urging a comprehensive deal with the Palestinian resistance to bring back their detained relatives.
In a statement published by Anadolu Agency, the Families of Captives Committee said:
“Look into their eyes (the captives). Time has run out. Our brothers are living through hell in captivity. Stop this madness—reach a comprehensive agreement to bring them home.”
