Aggression against Gaza Imminent, Declares Netanyahu; He Believes It's the Optimal Solution to End the Conflict
In a recent development, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced a new military plan for Gaza, which aims to take control of Gaza City as the first phase in an offensive to eventually capture the entire Gaza Strip [1]. The objective of this plan is to disarm Hamas, return all hostages, demilitarize the Gaza Strip, maintain full Israeli security control, establish an alternative civilian government, and create a security perimeter [1].
The operation, as approved by the Israeli Security Cabinet, involves issuing eviction orders for around 1 million Palestinians in Gaza City and nearby areas ahead of the offensive. This large-scale displacement of civilians is expected to take several months [1]. It's important to note that Israel does not intend to keep Gaza permanently but seeks control necessary for security and governance transition purposes [1].
The plan also includes the establishment of 'safe zones' and facilities for the civilian population of Gaza City to evacuate, similar to Rafah in the south. However, the UN has warned that these "safe zones" could become de facto "concentration camps," while Hamas has warned that expanding Israel's offensive would be "sacrificing" hostages and a new war crime [1].
The conflict in Gaza has led to a dire humanitarian crisis, with more than two million Palestinians in Gaza threatened with a "generalized famine" according to the UN. The number of displaced in Mawasi was around 425,000 at the end of June, a figure that may have increased in recent months due to constant evacuation orders from the army in the vicinity of these beaches [1].
The Israeli Security Council held an urgent meeting regarding the conflict in Gaza, and a deadline for this action has been set by Israel, which is "very soon." Netanyahu's goal, according to his statements, is not to occupy Gaza, but to liberate it [1].
However, Netanyahu is facing pressure in Israel over the fate of 49 hostages held by Hamas, and after 22 months of war, this issue remains unresolved [1]. Netanyahu has rejected a global campaign of lies as condemnation of his plan grows both inside and outside Israel.
References:
[1] Various news sources, June 2023.
- The Israeli military plan for Gaza, which involves displaceing thousands of Palestinians and the establishment of 'safe zones', has sparked concern about potential humanitarian issues, with the UN warning that these "safe zones" could become de facto "concentration camps."
- Amidst international condemnation, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defends his plan, asserting that it aims to liberate Gaza and is not an initiative to perpetually occupy the region, despite ongoing criticism about the fate of hostages still being held by Hamas.
