The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have implemented a new directive requiring all airstrikes and military operations in the Gaza Strip to receive explicit approval from IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir. Previously, authorization for such strikes was delegated to division commanders, but the policy shift centralizes decision-making at the highest military level.

This procedural change coincides with a notable reduction in IDF attacks in Gaza since the October 7 massacre. According to security sources cited by Army Radio, the more stringent approval process has contributed directly to a decrease in the number of strikes. Over a recent 48-hour period, there was a near cessation of strikes, with only one attack reported early on a Monday.

The IDF spokesperson’s unit emphasized that any escalation in operations within Gaza would require a decision from Israel’s political leadership, indicating that the military is currently operating under tighter controls and is avoiding unilateral escalations.

This development reflects a broader adjustment within the IDF’s operational approach amid the ongoing conflict, as coordination and approval mechanisms have been reinforced to ensure that military action aligns with higher-level strategic and political considerations.