‘Even armed terrorists require approval before troops engage’: IDF officers on new Gaza restrictions
The IDF has shifted in recent days from aggressive offensive operations in Gaza to a more restrained posture. Commanders say that even when armed terrorists are identified beyond the yellow line, troops may now need higher-level approval before striking.
A senior Gaza officer said troops still have authority to act against direct threats, but “beyond the yellow line, deep in the area, we do not act. Even if we see armed men. It is a different policy. We send it up and wait for approval.” He said there had been no strike for several consecutive days.
The authorization level for some strikes has reportedly risen as high as the chief of staff, effectively requiring political approval in some cases. Commanders were also instructed to halt immediate-response fire except against direct threats.
Another officer said targeted killings had previously occurred daily, sometimes several times a day, creating frequent operational opportunities. “Now it is quiet, there is nothing,” he said, comparing the situation to Israel’s previous freedom of action against Hezbollah in Lebanon.
Officers said Hamas quickly recognizes such changes and may use the quieter period to rebuild. “The terrorists do not disappear. They are trying to adapt to the new situation,” one said.
The shift comes amid political debate over the Board of Peace’s 15-point Gaza plan. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Sunday that Israel rejects the document and that the IDF will not withdraw until Hamas is fully disarmed.
However, Axios’ Barak Ravid reported today that Netanyahu spoke last week with President Trump’s envoy, Jared Kushner, and pledged to give the 15-point Gaza plan a chance despite his skepticism. He also reportedly committed to curbing Israeli attacks in Gaza to allow the demilitarization process to begin.
The IDF had spent June and July expanding the yellow line, pushing Hamas back and increasing strikes and targeted killings. Officers said they expect Hamas will not disarm voluntarily and that a return to the previous approach could follow a new threat.
The military maintains that troops remain authorized to immediately eliminate direct threats.
