Amidst the ongoing conflict in Gaza, Lt. Gen. Eyak Zamir, the IDF Chief of Defence Staff, has called upon Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to approve the hostage exchange deal. Zamir highlighted that the agreement is currently available for consideration. He also noted that the military has prepared the necessary groundwork for its completion. The IDF’s stance reflects the public demand for a deal that would secure the release of hostages and end the war. Military plans for occupying Gaza City have been authorized, which include intensive bombardment and the displacement of residents. The situation in Gaza remains dire, with a significant number of casualties reported since October 2023, and warnings of potential famine from international organizations. Overnight, Israeli forces launched strikes on the outskirts of Gaza City, demolishing homes and buildings, while troop reinforcements were deployed to the north.
