The time will be used to prepare militarily and explore diplomatic solutions.

By Hezy Laing

The government has decided to delay the planned IDF takeover of the Gaza Strip by two more months.

The delay in the takeover stems from a mix of military, humanitarian, and political concerns.

While Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has pushed for a decisive military campaign to conquer Gaza City and eventually the entire Strip, the IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen Eyal Zamir has reportedly asked to cancel or delay the campaign.

The move comes after six months of fruitless talks to free more Israeli hostages held by Hamas.

Despite the fear that Hamas is stalling for time – it was decided to give the chance for a deal an additional two months.

The Israeli Security Cabinet recently approved a phased plan that begins with the evacuation of roughly one million civilians from Gaza City by October 7, 2025—a symbolic date marking two years since the October 7 Hamas attacks.

Only after this evacuation will the IDF launch its ground offensive, placing a siege on the city to eliminate remaining Hamas operatives.

In essence, the delay reflects a compromise between Netanyahu’s push for swift action and the IDF’s call for delay.

The next two months will be used to prepare militarily and explore diplomatic solutions.

If no hostage deal is reached by October 7, the IDF is expected to proceed with its offensive into Gaza City, followed by operations in the remaining unconquered areas of the Strip.