Israel's Prime Minister Netanyahu aims for comprehensive control over Gaza, as civilian suffering escalates in the region
Israeli Government Approves Plan to Occupy Gaza City
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's security cabinet has reportedly approved a plan to occupy Gaza City, marking the first phase of a larger offensive to potentially occupy the entire Gaza Strip[1]. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) are preparing to take full control of Gaza City while providing humanitarian aid outside combat zones.
According to senior officials close to Netanyahu, the prime minister is inclined towards expanding the offensive and seizing the entire Palestinian enclave[1]. Netanyahu himself stated that the aim is to establish a security perimeter, disarm Hamas, return all hostages, demilitarize Gaza, maintain Israeli security control after the war, and establish an alternative civilian government in Gaza[1].
The operation, which is expected to last several months, could result in the displacement of about 1 million Palestinians in Gaza City and surrounding areas[1]. The Israeli military is concerned that expanding the offensive may endanger the 20 hostages who are still alive[1].
The decision to broaden military operations in Gaza was made despite opposition from the security establishment[1]. Some Israeli officials have suggested Israel might declare annexation of parts of Gaza as a means to pressure Hamas[1]. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir want to see Israel impose military rule in Gaza before annexing it and re-establishing Jewish settlements[1].
The public broadcaster KAN reported that ministers who recently spoke with Netanyahu said the premier decided to broaden military operations in Gaza[1]. The Israeli military is expected to present alternatives to expanding the offensive, including extending into areas of Gaza where it has not yet operated[1].
In November 2024, the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant over alleged war crimes. However, former U.S. President Donald Trump is reported to have given Netanyahu a "green light" to proceed with the expanded assault[1].
Israel launched its military campaign following Hamas' Oct. 7, 2023, incursion, which resulted in 1,200 deaths and 251 hostages being taken into Gaza. Netanyahu will convene his cabinet on Tuesday to make a decision on the matter[1].
As of now, it is unclear how the international community will respond to this significant expansion of military operations and occupation in Gaza. Israeli Channel 12 reported that the decision signals a major shift in Israel's Gaza strategy[1]. Netanyahu's office did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
[1] Source: Israeli Channel 12 News, November 2024.
- The Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is contemplating expanding the offensive beyond Gaza City, aiming to seize the entire Palestinian enclave, which could be interpreted as a political move and a significant shift in the region's war-and-conflicts situation.
- The Israeli Defense Forces, while engaged in the occupation of Gaza City, are also planning to establish a security perimeter and demilitarize Gaza, which could have far-reaching implications for arts, politics, and general news, potentially influencing the cultural and political fabric of the region.
