Netanyahu halts Gaza liquidations as security officials warn of missed operational opportunities

Following a series of targeted liquidations throughout the Gaza Strip since the ceasefire took effect, which resulted in the deaths of approximately 500 terrorists according to IDF data, the pace of operations increased over the last two weeks, leading to a rise in fatalities.

Hamas leadership based in Qatar and Turkey exerted pressure on Qatar, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and other entities, including the Peace Council, to lobby the White House to halt these operations. Jerusalem initially instructed a reduction in liquidations, but as this did not satisfy American demands, targeted operations were stopped entirely this week.

The current situation in Gaza, where the IDF operates under significant constraints while the Peace Council accelerates rehabilitation processes without ensuring the disarmament of Hamas, has drawn sharp criticism from within the security establishment.

In response to this criticism, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the cabinet:

"Israel rejects the 15-point document. The IDF will not carry out any withdrawal until the real disarmament of Hamas and will continue to neutralize threats against our forces and our citizens."

"When I speak of disarmament, I mean heavy weapons, light weapons, all weapons. We are talking about real disarmament, not a fictitious one. We are currently discussing this issue with the Americans," Netanyahu added.

However, security officials argue that without addressing specific processes, Netanyahu's words lack substance. They maintain that the Prime Minister must prevent the entry of national forces into the Gaza Strip, as this could introduce foreign influence that Hamas would exploit to normalize its rule and evade disarmament, following advice from Turkish intermediaries.

Furthermore, officials believe it is critical to prevent the entry of a technocratic committee into Gaza, which, according to IDF assessments, Hamas could eventually co-opt and manipulate with great sophistication.

Additionally, security experts argue that the IDF must maintain its current positions to maximize pressure on Hamas. There is a unanimous consensus that operations against field commanders and operatives must resume. Security officials confirmed on Sunday that opportunities to strike Hamas military wing operatives were missed over the past week due to government policy.