Israel’s Plan to Seize Gaza City Revealed
Netanyahu’s bold move escalates war, risking hostages and lives.
Israel’s Security Cabinet has greenlit a controversial plan to take over Gaza City, intensifying its 22-month offensive sparked by Hamas’ October 7, 2023, attack. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced intentions to dismantle Hamas, secure the Gaza Strip, and eventually transfer its governance to allied Arab forces, a decision finalized early Friday after heated discussions.
The escalation threatens the lives of approximately 20 remaining Israeli hostages and countless Palestinians, while further isolating Israel globally. Israel already controls roughly three-quarters of the ravaged territory, where its air and ground operations have killed over 61,000 Palestinians, displaced most residents, and triggered widespread hunger, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry. Local hospitals reported 42 Palestinians killed in southern Gaza on Thursday alone, many while seeking aid.
“There’s nothing left to occupy,” said Maysaa al-Heila, a displaced Palestinian living in a camp. “Gaza is gone.”
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Netanyahu, in a Fox News interview, emphasized creating a “security perimeter” without permanent occupation, aiming to hand over governance to Arab forces for a stable future. However, the plan faces fierce opposition. Families of hostages protested outside the Jerusalem meeting, fearing for their loved ones’ safety. Yehuda Cohen, father of captive soldier Nimrod Cohen, accused Netanyahu of prolonging the war for political gain, citing pressure from far-right coalition members pushing for mass displacement and Jewish resettlement.
Former Israeli security officials, including military chief Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir, warned that occupying Gaza risks a quagmire with little strategic gain and endangers hostages. Hamas’ 2023 attack killed 1,200 people and abducted 251, with about 50 hostages still in Gaza, 20 believed alive.
The humanitarian crisis worsens as aid distribution falters. At least 13 of Thursday’s deaths occurred in an Israeli-controlled zone where desperate crowds overwhelmed UN aid convoys. The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), backed by Israel and the US, faces criticism for chaotic aid sites. Doctors Without Borders (MSF) reported treating 1,380 injured near GHF sites from June to July, including 147 with gunshot wounds, calling the system an “orchestrated killing.” GHF dismissed the claims as “disgraceful” and accused MSF of spreading Hamas propaganda.
The UN and independent experts view Gaza’s Health Ministry data as reliable, despite Israel’s disputes. As Israel’s plan unfolds, Palestinians brace for more suffering, and international criticism mounts over the deepening crisis.
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