IDF Chief Must Approve All Targeted Killings in Gaza Amid Policy Shift

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have tightened their rules of engagement in Gaza, now requiring the Chief of Staff's direct approval for any targeted killing of militants who do not pose an immediate threat. This marks a significant shift from previous policy, where such operations could be authorized by division or regional commanders. The new directive aims to limit actions to immediate threat neutralization, similar to current practices in Lebanon, and has already resulted in a sharp decline in IDF strikes, with only one attack recorded in the past 48 hours.

This policy change comes amid intense international pressure on Israel to advance to the next phase of a ceasefire agreement in Gaza. Nikolay Mladenov, head of the Gaza Peace Council, and advisor Aryeh Leitston met with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, urging a halt to attacks as part of the US-backed 20-point plan proposed by President Donald Trump. The meeting was described as difficult, with Israeli officials rejecting demands to return to previous ceasefire lines or stop targeted killings, emphasizing Israel's commitment to preventing threats to its citizens and soldiers.

Meanwhile, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and Settlement Minister Ayelet Shaked called on Netanyahu to immediately block the deployment of the international stabilization force (ISF) in Gaza. They argued that the cabinet's decision was based on incorrect information and warned that the peace council's roadmap contradicts Israel's goal of disarming Hamas and other militant groups. This opposition follows US President Trump's recent announcement of an agreement for Hamas and other armed factions in Gaza to disarm, a claim Hamas quickly denied.

An Israeli official told N12, "The message to the IDF is clear: no adventures in Gaza. We cannot allow our enemies to claim victory by sabotaging the agreement." The new rules reflect Israel's cautious approach amid diplomatic efforts to end the Gaza conflict while maintaining security priorities.