Defense Ministry of Israel endorses strategy for annexation of Gaza
In a troubling turn of events, Israel has reportedly approved a military plan to capture the city of Gaza, mobilizing around 60,000 reservists [1]. This decision comes amidst the collapse of a ceasefire that began on 19 January 2025, a three-stage proposal aimed at ending the ongoing conflict and ensuring the safety and well-being of both Israeli and Palestinian civilians.
The ceasefire, mediated by the U.S., Egypt, and Qatar, initially accepted by Hamas in May 2024, and supported by the UN Security Council in June 2024, was based on a series of hostage and prisoner exchanges, Israel's withdrawal from Gaza, and a reconstruction process lasting three to five years [1]. However, by 18 March 2025, the ceasefire was broken with surprise airstrikes on Gaza by Israel, following accusations of Hamas's refusal to release hostages and rejection of extensions of the ceasefire [1].
The city of Gaza, home to an estimated one million people, has been severely affected by the conflict. Since the start of the Gaza war nearly two years ago, almost all of its nearly two million inhabitants have become internal refugees. Over 70% of the houses in the Gaza Strip have been destroyed or severely damaged, with some areas reporting up to 80 to 90% damage [1].
Israeli demands for ending the war include the disarmament of Hamas, the return of all hostages, demilitarization of the Gaza Strip, Israeli security control, and an alternative civilian administration not exercised by Hamas or the Palestinian Authority [1]. However, these demands have not been met, leading to the current renewed military operations.
The offensive could further exacerbate the already catastrophic humanitarian situation in Gaza. Hamas is under significant international pressure, according to Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu. Military Chief Eyal Zamir warned of significant risks to soldiers and remaining hostages. Preparations for the reception of civilians from Gaza are being made at a location further south in the coastal strip, with humanitarian aid ensured for the evacuated civilians [1].
Meanwhile, several countries, including France, Canada, and Australia, have planned to recognize a Palestinian state in September [1]. This recognition has been rejected by Israel, citing it as a "reward for Hamas" following the massacre on October 7, 2023. The Israeli Security Cabinet is expected to meet by the end of the week to make an official response [1].
Arab mediators have given Hamas the choice between accepting a temporary ceasefire or agreeing to a comprehensive deal that involves the release of all hostages and an end to the war [1]. It remains to be seen whether this latest military operation will lead to a resolution or further escalation of the conflict.
[1] Sources: BBC News, Al Jazeera, The New York Times, The Washington Post.
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