Jerusalem: Israel's security cabinet has approved a plan to take control of Gaza City, confirmed by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office. The decision marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict. A statement released outlines a five-point plan aimed at "defeating Hamas" and "concluding the war," which received approval through a majority vote.
According to BBC, Netanyahu had previously stated intentions to take over the entire Gaza Strip, but the current plan specifically targets Gaza City. The escalation has faced domestic opposition, particularly from families of the remaining hostages who express concerns for the lives of the 20 believed survivors. The plan is expected to impact hundreds of thousands of Palestinians in regions where military actions will expand.
Israel's security cabinet, a smaller body than the full cabinet, comprises key ministers responsible for shaping and executing Israel's foreign and defense strategies. It includes far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, who have threatened to resign if a Gaza ceasefire deal is reached, as Netanyahu's coalition depends on their support.
Criticism has emerged internationally, with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemning Israel's decision, stating it would exacerbate the conflict and hinder hostage negotiations. He emphasized that Hamas should have no role in Gaza's future. Other nations, including Australia, Finland, and Turkey, have also condemned the plan.
Volker Trk, the UN human rights chief, warned that further escalation would lead to more displacement, casualties, suffering, destruction, and potential atrocity crimes. Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid labeled the decision a "disaster," arguing on social media that Netanyahu's actions align with Hamas's objectives.
Reports in Israeli media suggest the plan's initial focus is on securing full control of Gaza City, necessitating the relocation of its one million residents further south. The strategy includes targeting central Gaza refugee camps and areas suspected of hosting hostages. A subsequent offensive, accompanied by increased humanitarian aid, is anticipated.
Mark Lyall Grant, the UK's former national security adviser, described Netanyahu's approach as a "huge military and political gamble," citing violations of international law related to the displacement of one million people. Palestinian Mahmoud al-Qurashli commented on the dire situation in Gaza City, indicating that residents see little distinction between occupation and the current circumstances.
Ahead of the cabinet's decision, Hamas accused Netanyahu of prioritizing personal interests over hostages' safety, describing his actions as genocidal and displacing. The group also criticized the prime minister for abandoning negotiations.
The Israeli military currently controls approximately three-quarters of Gaza, with the majority of its 2.1 million residents situated in the remaining quarter. The UN estimates that 87% of Gaza is either militarized or under evacuation orders, with central Gaza areas and coastal regions remaining outside Israeli control.
The GHF has faced severe criticism from the UN and aid agencies, accused of chaotic operations that force Palestinians to undertake dangerous journeys for food. Hundreds have been killed near GHF sites, with accusations against Israeli forces, who deny targeting civilians.
Médecins Sans Frontières described the violence as systemic and urged Israeli authorities to cease GHF operations and open border crossings for aid. The humanitarian crisis in Gaza is severe, with the territory nearing famine and suffering from deprivation due to Israeli restrictions.
The World Health Organization reported a spike in acute malnutrition among Gaza's children, while top UN official Miroslav Jenca warned against the legality and implications of occupying Gaza. US President Donald Trump stated the decision to seize Gaza rests with Israel, as US-brokered ceasefire talks have stalled.
The conflict began following Hamas's attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, which resulted in 1,200 deaths and 251 hostages taken to Gaza. Israel's military response has led to over 61,158 Palestinian casualties, according to Gaza's health ministry.