Tel Aviv: Israels security cabinet has approved a plan to take control of Gaza City, marking a controversial escalation in its ongoing conflict in the region. The decision has sparked significant opposition within Israel and from the international community. The plan targets Gaza City, the most populous city in the enclave, which was home to hundreds of thousands of Palestinians before the conflict intensified.
According to BBC, the plan includes several key objectives: the disarmament of Hamas, the return of all hostages, the demilitarization of the Gaza Strip, Israeli security control over the area, and the establishment of an alternative civilian administration. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have stated they will prepare to take control of Gaza City while providing humanitarian aid to civilians outside the combat zones. However, details on the aid delivery mechanism remain unclear.
The focus on Gaza City comes after Prime Minister Netanyahu expressed a desire for Israel to control the entire Gaza Strip. Currently, Israel claims control over 75% of Gaza, although UN estimates suggest that 86% of the territory is under militarized zones or evacuation orders. The takeover of Gaza City is seen as the first phase in a potential full-scale occupation of the region, a move that may also be intended to pressure Hamas in stalled negotiations.
Despite the approval, Israel has not specified when the takeover will commence. Reports indicate that the military will not immediately move into Gaza City, as resident evacuations are necessary first. The plan has been met with criticism, with UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and other international figures condemning the escalation and warning of further humanitarian crises.
In the wake of these developments, there has been speculation about Israel's intentions to eventually hand over control to "Arab forces," though details remain vague. The plan's lack of clarity has drawn criticism from various quarters, including the UN and several foreign governments, which have called for restraint and a ceasefire.
Amidst the international backlash, the Hostages Families Forum Headquarters in Israel has also expressed grave concerns, fearing the plan could lead to catastrophic outcomes for both hostages and soldiers. Meanwhile, reports of alleged U.S. approval for the operation remain contentious, with conflicting narratives emerging about the diplomatic dynamics at play.