Israel’s security cabinet is convening to discuss a potential full reoccupation of Gaza, a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict following nearly two years of warfare. Despite facing international pressure and concerns from the Israeli military about the danger to hostages currently held by Hamas, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is advocating for a comprehensive takeover of the area.
In a recent interview, Netanyahu expressed Israeli intentions to “remove Hamas” from Gaza, aiming to eventually transfer governance to non-Hamas entities. His stance has prompted criticism from opposition leader Yair Lapid, who warned that extending the war would lead to more casualties, including among hostages. Families of the approximately 50 hostages remaining in Gaza have expressed their dissent, holding protests and urging the government to reconsider its plans.
The proposed military operation could last up to five months, during which it is expected that about one million Palestinians would need to evacuate to designated areas in southern Gaza. In efforts to facilitate aid distribution, Israel and the U.S. plan to expand the number of distribution sites operated by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation from four to sixteen.
While Netanyahu has not detailed a civilian governance plan for Gaza, he suggested that the objective is to entrust the leadership to Arab forces capable of ensuring a secure environment for Israelis and improving living conditions for Gazans. Discussions about the expansion of military operations may be paused should Hamas return to the negotiation table, although talks recently stalled over accusations of bad faith from both sides.
U.S. President Donald Trump’s endorsement of Israel’s autonomy in deciding the course of action further complicates the situation. The Israeli military asserts that it currently controls about 75% of Gaza, an area severely impacted by the ongoing crisis.
Warnings from military leaders highlight the complexities of a full Gaza takeover, cautioning that such an action could escalate military entrapment and jeopardize the safety of hostages. The dynamic between military and political leadership has come under scrutiny, with IDF chief Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir noting the importance of open debate in decision-making processes.
Simultaneously, protests are growing in opposition to the expansion of military efforts, with families of hostages calling for a cessation of hostilities, fearing that any prolonged conflict could jeopardize their loved ones’ safety. In Kibbutz Nir Oz, devastated by previous attacks, community leaders voiced their concern that the security cabinet’s plans would lead to a future of despair.
The overall sentiment in Israel remains complex, with many citizens favoring an end to the conflict in exchange for the safe return of hostages. As the discussions unfold, the delicate balance between security and humanitarian concerns continues to shape the narrative of this ongoing crisis.