Israel’s military announced on Wednesday that Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir has authorized the main framework for an operational plan to occupy the Gaza Strip. The decision was made during a meeting with the General Staff Forum, representatives from the Israel Security Agency, and other senior commanders. According to the army’s statement, the plan’s central concept was presented and approved in line with directives from the political leadership, with recent actions — including Tuesday’s strike in Gaza’s Zeitoun neighborhood — forming part of the operational build-up.

The approved framework sets the foundation for the next phase of military operations in Gaza, though specific tactical details have not been disclosed. The statement highlighted that the framework focuses on key operational principles for achieving control over the territory, implying potential large-scale ground maneuvers. The Zeitoun operation, cited as part of the plan’s preparatory actions, targeted areas reportedly used by armed groups for staging attacks.

The army emphasized that the approval aligns with guidance from the political echelon, signaling close coordination between military and government leadership. While the framework has been approved, further steps toward full implementation will depend on subsequent operational planning and political authorization. The announcement comes amid heightened regional tensions, with ongoing clashes in Gaza and increased international scrutiny over the humanitarian impact of expanded military operations.