Ahmed Kamel – Egypt Daily News
In a major escalation of its military operations, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has approved a comprehensive plan for the occupation of Gaza City, proposed by Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi. The Israeli Army Radio reported on Wednesday that the operation will be named “Chariots of Gideon 2”, marking a significant shift in Israel’s ongoing campaign in the Gaza Strip.
According to military sources, the plan outlines a large-scale, phased invasion of Gaza City, involving ground forces supported by continued aerial bombardment. The initial phase will focus on the evacuation of civilians and the establishment of humanitarian zones in southern Gaza. These zones are expected to include tent encampments, access to food, water, and medical clinics. The broad evacuation is planned to begin no sooner than two weeks from the announcement.
In preparation for the operation, Israeli authorities have also approved the issuance of approximately 60,000 reserve call-up orders, signaling the scale and seriousness of the planned offensive.
Defense Minister Gallant emphasized the transformative nature of the operation, stating:
“When this operation is complete, Gaza will not look like it did before.”
Details of the Multi-Stage Operation:
- Humanitarian Preparation and Civilian Evacuation:
Establishment of southern encampments and facilities to support displaced civilians from Gaza City. This includes pre-planned evacuations over the coming weeks. - Encirclement of Gaza City:
Ground forces will begin operations to gradually encircle Gaza City, cutting off access points while continuing aerial strikes to weaken remaining defenses. - Gradual Urban Occupation:
The Israeli military will then move into Gaza City in phases, described as slow and methodical, with an emphasis on minimizing military casualties and controlling the urban environment step by step.
The name “Chariots of Gideon 2” references a previous Israeli military operation, and its revival suggests a campaign of significant magnitude and ambition. The military framing implies not only tactical objectives but also symbolic intent: to reshape Gaza’s future political and geographic landscape.
International Implications
The announcement has already begun to draw attention internationally, as concerns mount over the humanitarian toll and long-term ramifications of such a military move. With over a million civilians still residing in or near Gaza City, human rights organizations and regional observers are warning of a potential catastrophe unless meaningful humanitarian corridors and safeguards are implemented.
The operation also raises questions about the future governance of Gaza and the broader trajectory of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, as Israel appears to be signaling a long-term or permanent presence in at least parts of the Strip.
As regional tensions remain high, and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza deepens, all eyes will be on how “Chariots of Gideon 2” unfolds in the coming weeks.
