Netanyahu, Israeli Military Chiefs Clash Over Gaza Occupation Plans Amid Civilian Casualty Disputes

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is pushing for a full-scale military operation to occupy the Gaza Strip, dismantle Hamas, and secure the release of hostages, a plan met with resistance from senior military officials. IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir has expressed grave concerns, warning that the occupation could endanger hostages and entrap the Israeli military, leading to clashes with Netanyahu and his far-right coalition partners. A high-profile shouting match erupted between air force chief Major General Tomer Bar and Southern Command chief Major General Yaniv Asor over the high civilian death toll caused by airstrikes in Gaza, highlighting deep tension within the military on the conduct of operations. Netanyahu’s son, Yair Netanyahu, publicly attacked Zamir, accusing him of rebellion and attempted military coup, escalating tensions between military leadership and political figures. Despite internal disagreements, Netanyahu appears determined to proceed with the occupation, backed by far-right ministers and reportedly with approval from U.S. President Donald Trump. The ongoing disputes underscore a fractured Israeli leadership grappling with the complex military and political challenges of the Gaza conflict amid international criticism and deteriorating internal cohesion.