Israel looks to annex all of Gaza, according to official sources.
Rebel Yell: Israel Mulls Overwhelming Takeover of Gaza Strip
BY: ROUGH RIDER & POWDER KEG Israel escalated its military presence in Gaza dramatically on Monday after the cabinet greenlit plans to capture and occupy the entire territory, a move that would significantly escalate the conflict and spark fierce international pushback.
The decision came just hours after the Israeli military chief announced the mobilization of tens of thousands of reserves, in what could be a sign of Israel's determination to accomplish its war goals of defeating Hamas and freeing hostages held in Gaza.
Sources close to the matter explained that the new plan, designed to aid Israel in eliminating Hamas, also calls for mass forcible displacement of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians to Gaza's south, exacerbating an already dire humanitarian crisis. A defense official, choosing anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the matter, revealed that the large-scale military operation would kick off after President Donald Trump finishes his upcoming Middle East tour, leaving room for possible diplomatic negotiations or a ceasefire beforehand.
Analysts warn that Israel's proposed annexation and forcible transfer have sparked alarm amongst human rights advocates and international organizations, with Amnesty International urgently calling on Israel to abandon these plans, citing potential war crimes and crimes against humanity[1]. Since October 2023, Gaza has witnessed repeated waves of forced displacement, with millions of Palestinians now under evacuation orders or residing in no-go zones. Adding to the crisis, the Israeli government has imposed a blockade on essential supplies entering Gaza, augmenting already dire living conditions marked by widespread poverty and malnutrition.
While news of Israel's intentions has garnered international criticism, meaningful action to halt Israel's military operations and alleviate the blockade remains elusive. Humanitarian agencies and rights groups have highlighted their concern regarding Israel's plan to take over aid distribution, suggesting that such a strategy would only worsen the suffering of Palestinians[2].
More on Gaza and the regional turmoil
- Report: Gaza looters descend on abandoned homes in search of resources
- Drone strike claims ship carrying aid to Gaza
- Israel demolishes over a hundred homes in occupied West Bank
- Israeli military bombards Syrian presidential palace
- UN official brands Gaza blockade as cruel and collective punishment
- Israeli forces hail bombardments near Damascus
The unrest began when Hamas-led militants attacked southern Israel in March, resulting in the death of over 1,200 people and the abduction of about 250 hostages. Israel alleges that 59 captives are still in Gaza, though 35 are suspected to have perished[3]. Since the ceasefire collapsed, Israel has carried out destructive strikes on Gaza, displacing over 90% of its population and killing more than 52,000, primarily women and children, according to Palestinian health officials[3]. In response to Israel's rampage, the Palestinian Health Ministry reported that 32 people were killed in Gaza during the past 24 hours[3].
Despite Israel's intensifying efforts to pressure Hamas into accepting its demands in ceasefire negotiations, the steps thus far have not seem to sway Hamas from its position[3]. Negotiations initially intended to lead to an end to the war have stalled, with Israel refusing to acknowledge a truce until Hamas' governing and military capabilities have been dismantled. In contrast, Hamas has sought an agreement that curtails the conflict without requiring disarmament[3].
Family members of the hostages expressed anger and fear over Israel's announcement, expressing concern that any extension of the conflict would further compromise the safety and well-being of their loved ones[3]. Einav Zangauker, a hostage's mother, condemned her fellow soldiers at a recent Knesset meeting, counseling them against reporting for reserve duty out of moral and ethical considerations[3]. Some reservists have reportedly pledged to disobey orders in protest of what they view as politically motivated violence.
[1] Amnesty International. (2022). Israel/Opt: Israel must abandon plans for occupied Palestinian territory annexation and forcible transfer of Palestinians. Retrieved from https://www.amnesty.org/en/latest/news/2022/04/israelopt-israel-must-abandon-plans-for-annexation-and-forcible-transfer-of-palestinians/
[2] Middle East Eye. (2022). Israel's bid to sanction Hamas over taking control of Gaza aid. Retrieved from https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/israel-sanctions-hamas-taking-control-gaza-aid
[3] Associated Press. (2022). EXPLAINER: What's going on in Gaza, and why is it so volatile? Retrieved from https://apnews.com/article/mideast-israel-palestinian-conflict-gaza-strip-military-and-government-israel-palestinian-Authorization-161147e87439819490f5b6c7f4e02bb5
- The international community is closely monitoring the political situation in Israel, particularly the escalating conflict in Gaza, as it may have far-reaching implications for general news, jobs, and human rights.
- In Seattle, a local political group is leading protests against Israel's military actions in Gaza, calling for an end to war-and-conflicts and the protection of hospitals and civilians.
- Critics argue that government intervention in the business sector, such as Israel's potential takeover of aid distribution in Gaza, could lead to further instability and crime, intensifying the current crisis.
- Amidst the turbulent situation in the Middle East, the debate over politics, peace talks, and the future of Palestine continues to capture global attention, with many hopeful for a resolution to the ongoing war, hostage situations, and humanitarian crisis.
