Israel approves plan to occupy Gaza City: conflict escalates

Israel’s security cabinet has approved Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s plan for the full military occupation of Gaza City, marking a new and dramatic phase in the ongoing conflict. The operation includes the deployment of ground troops, the dismantling of Hamas, the release of hostages, and the temporary civil administration of the area by a third party—neither Hamas nor the Palestinian Authority.

The plan also aims to forcibly evacuate around one million Palestinian civilians to southern Gaza by October 7, the anniversary of the 2023 Hamas attacks.

Strong Internal Opposition

The decision was made despite strong opposition from IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir, who warned of serious risks to both hostages and Israeli troops. The plan was also condemned by the hostages’ families and opposition leaders, who accuse Netanyahu of acting for political survival. Mass protests erupted in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, denouncing the move as dangerous and misguided.

International Condemnation

The United Nations called for the immediate suspension of the plan, warning it could amount to a war crime. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer labeled the move a “strategic and moral mistake,” while Australia voiced concern over potential civilian casualties.

Grave Humanitarian Situation

Netanyahu insists there will be no annexation and that the occupation is temporary, though it remains unclear who will govern Gaza afterward. Meanwhile, according to Palestinian sources, over 130 people were killed in Israeli airstrikes in the past 24 hours alone.