Defense Officials Favor Targeted Gaza Pressure Over Escalation

N12 reported at 22:45 IDT that senior defense officials recommend avoiding a rushed Gaza escalation while Hamas is weak, and instead widening targeted strikes against emerging threats. The report says Southern Command is shifting to focused eliminations and infrastructure strikes across Gaza while operational plans for renewed fighting remain ready if Hamas forces Israel's hand. JPost separately reported that Southern Command is preparing for possible anti-Hamas operations as the International Stabilization Force receives vehicles, and that Hamas still governs about 30% of Gaza with major weapons stocks. N12 also warned of a looming regular-force manpower hole if the Knesset dissolves without service-extension legislation. Israel should preserve initiative, keep dismantling Hamas and avoid letting coalition timing dictate battlefield choices.