IDF considers daring plan to split Gaza in two and relocate civilians.

By Hezy Laing

There is growing support in the IDF for a daring plan to end Hamas’s control over the Gaza Strip.

The strategy centers on dividing Gaza into two distinct zones and relocating civilians from north to south, effectively sealing off the northern half of the territory as a closed military zone.

The plan, sometimes referred to as the “Generals’ Plan,” was submitted to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the Israeli parliament in late 2024.

It calls for giving Arab civilians one week to evacuate northern Gaza, including Gaza City.

After that deadline, anyone remaining would be classified as a combatant, subject to military engagement and denied access to food, water, medicine, and fuel.

The goal, according to its architects, is to starve out Hamas fighters and pressure the group to release Israeli hostages.

While the Israeli military has not officially adopted the plan, elements of it appear to be unfolding on the ground.

Israeli forces have already launched offensives in northern areas like Jabaliya and Beit Lahia, and humanitarian aid to the region has been cut off since September 30, 2024.

According to reports, no trucks carrying food or medical supplies have entered the north in months.

The plan also envisions a long-term Israeli military presence in northern Gaza, with the aim of establishing a new administrative structure free from Hamas influence.

This would effectively split the Gaza Strip into two zones: a militarized north under Israeli control and a southern region where displaced civilians would be concentrated.

Leading IDF figures supporting the plan include: Major General (Res.) Giora Eiland, Brigadier General (Res.) Erez Wiener, Lieutenant General (Res.) Hezi Nehemia and Brigadier General (Res.) Amir Avivi.

These generals represent a growing faction within Israel’s security establishment that favors aggressive, territory-focused strategies to end Hamas’s rule.