Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz confirmed on Tuesday that the Israeli army will implement any policy set by the government, in an apparent effort to quell growing tensions between the political and military leadership over a full occupation of Gaza.
During a visit to southern Israel near the Gaza border—accompanied by senior military officials but notably without IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi—Katz emphasized the chain of command.
“Once political decisions are made, the army will carry them out,” Katz said, underlining his role in ensuring the military follows government directives.
Katz’s comments come as divisions widen in Israel’s security establishment, particularly over the feasibility and risks of reoccupying Gaza. Leaks in the Israeli press have revealed that top army commanders, including Halevi, have reportedly opposed a full occupation plan, warning of severe political and security consequences.
According to Israeli media, Katz’s visit aimed to assess the situation on the ground ahead of a key Security Cabinet meeting scheduled for Tuesday evening, where the continuation of military operations in Gaza will be discussed.
The defense minister reiterated that the war’s central objectives remain the defeat of Hamas and the return of hostages. He also proposed creating a permanent security buffer zone inside Gaza to prevent future attacks on Israeli settlements and disrupt arms smuggling.
“This is the main lesson from the events of October 7,” Katz said. “As in other fronts, the army must have a direct role in separating Gaza from our communities.”
The statement marks a turning point in Israel’s internal debate, as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reportedly pushes for deeper military involvement in Gaza, while senior IDF officials remain cautious.