Operation Gideon’s Chariots: Israel’s Next Phase in Gaza

Israel has approved and is preparing to launch the next major phase of operations in Gaza: Operation "Gideon’s Chariots." Unlike previous operations characterized by raids, limited clearing, and withdrawal, this new plan represents a significant shift. It appears guided by a phased strategy rooted in lessons from past conflicts—Clear, Hold, Build.

Israel’s war aims have not changed since October 7:

• Secure the release of all hostages

• Dismantle Hamas’s military and governing capabilities

• Ensure no threat can reemerge from Gaza to endanger Israel again

To accomplish this, the IDF will no longer operate with short-term objectives. Instead, it will move with full force, expand its presence across Gaza, and remain in every area it captures.

The operation appears structured into three distinct and deliberate phases:

• Phase 1: Prepare – IDF forces shape the battlespace, isolate Hamas, allow time for hostage negotiations, and pre-position for sustained operations.

• Phase 2: Clear and Hold – Methodical clearing of Hamas presence and capabilities, area by area, with Israeli forces maintaining control and preventing re-infiltration.

• Phase 3: Build – Governance, stabilization, and the cultivation of local alternatives to Hamas to begin laying the foundation for post-conflict order.

As part of this effort, civilians will be temporarily evacuated from combat zones in northern and central Gaza to humanitarian safe zones in the south recently cleared by the IDF. This aims to separate the civilian population from Hamas militants and allow for the safe delivery of humanitarian aid.