The Israeli military today approved a plan for the next phase of the war in Gaza, emphasizing the focus on Gaza City with the goal of “eliminating” Hamas. Israeli Defense Forces Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir said in a statement, “Today we are approving the plan for the next stage of the war. We will maintain the momentum of Operation Gideon’s Chariots while focusing on Gaza City. We will continue to strike until Hamas is defeated, with our eyes on the hostages,” indicating that the release of the hostages still under captivity in Gaza is the priority. Operation Gideon’s Chariots refers to an Israeli military offensive against Hamas that was launched in May.