Israeli authorities green-light a military operation aimed at seizing control over Gaza City
Israel's government has approved a major military plan, proposed by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, to intensify pressure on Hamas in Gaza. The operation, currently focused on Gaza City, is set to expand in October 2025 with the aim of occupying and controlling the entire Gaza Strip [1][3].
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) are preparing for a significant phase of the operation, which includes plans to displace the civilian population from Gaza City and surround the city for several months. The ultimate goal is to seize control over central Gaza and clear armed groups throughout the Strip [3].
This planned expansion marks a significant escalation in the conflict, moving beyond previous limited strikes toward a full military occupation of northern Gaza. The strategic goal is to dismantle Hamas’s control in the entire Gaza Strip [1][3].
The expansion of the military campaign has drawn broad international condemnation. Critics, including several UN officials and multiple countries, warn that the operation risks exacerbating the humanitarian crisis, violating international humanitarian law, and could destabilize the region further [2][3][4]. The displacement of hundreds of thousands of civilians and the intensification of hostilities raise severe concerns about civilian casualties, humanitarian access, and potential breaches of international law [3][4].
International efforts are underway to urge a ceasefire, immediate release of hostages, and support for a political two-state solution as the only sustainable path forward [3][4][5]. France and other countries are advocating for an international stabilization mission under UN auspices to reduce violence and help secure a peaceful resolution [5].
However, the scope and timeline of the operation's extension to the entire Gaza Strip remain unclear in the statement. The prime minister's intentions for the operation beyond the initial enclave were stated, but the nature of the military plan approved was not specified [1].
This new phase of the conflict, amid strong international calls for caution, restraint, and diplomatic solutions, has sparked concern and debate both domestically and internationally [1][3][4][5].
The planned military operation by Israel, aimed at expanding in October 2025 and seizing control over central Gaza, has garnered significant international criticism. UN officials, multiple countries, and various organizations express concern about the potential violation of international humanitarian law, the exacerbation of the humanitarian crisis, and instability in the region.
France and other countries are advocating for an international stabilization mission under the United Nations to reduce violence and help secure a peaceful resolution, as the international community calls for a ceasefire and diplomatic solutions rather than a full military occupation of the Gaza Strip.
