Israeli Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir has stressed that he will continue to express his objection to government plans to occupy the Gaza Strip. 

Following tense confrontations with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other prominent officials, Zamir said the army “will continue to express our position fearlessly in a matter-of-fact, independent and professional manner”.

At a cabinet meeting that will begin later on Thursday, the Israeli military will present two plans: encircling Gaza or the complete occupation of the besieged enclave. 

The latter option has been heavily supported by Netanyahu’s government, while the former has been recommended by the chief of staff, who says this option will ensure the Israeli captives held in Gaza are subject to less danger.

Politicians and other military officials who oppose the occupation of the blockaded Strip have warned that it risks the lives of remaining captives, weakens the military and could have irreperable economic costs to Israel.