Netanyahu asserts that his new plan is the optimal solution to terminate the ongoing war, he claims.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced a new military plan aimed at taking full control of the Gaza Strip, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict. Here are the key details of this plan:
- Objective: The main goal of the operation is to dismantle Hamas's military capabilities and governance by taking direct control over Gaza, effectively ending Hamas’s rule there.
- Scope of Military Action: The plan involves a significant ground offensive, intensifying airstrikes, and possibly expanding the number of Israeli troops inside Gaza. Netanyahu emphasized that this will be a comprehensive confrontation, not limited to border incursions.
- Phases: The operation may be carried out in phases, starting with isolating Hamas militants, destroying their infrastructure, and progressively securing key urban areas, ultimately aiming for full territorial control.
- Duration and Intensity: Netanyahu suggested that the campaign could be prolonged and intense, indicating that Israel is prepared for a sustained conflict until its objectives are met.
- Coordination: The plan involves close coordination with Israel Defense Forces (IDF) commanders, intelligence agencies, and potentially international partners regarding humanitarian considerations.
- Humanitarian Context: While focused on military goals, Netanyahu has acknowledged the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and indicated efforts to ensure civilian safety and manage aid delivery, though the primary emphasis remains on neutralizing Hamas.
The Israeli security cabinet has also approved a plan that includes allowing the civilian population to safely leave combat zones and providing them with abundant food, water, and medical care in designated safe zones. The plan also includes the opening of "protected corridors" and an increase in the number of aid distribution sites by the GHF (a private foundation supported by the US and Israel).
However, the announcement has been met with criticism from various quarters. The UN Under-Secretary-General, Miroslav Jenca, warned against Israel's military plans, which could trigger "a new calamity" with severe regional consequences. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich stated, "The Prime Minister and the cabinet have given in to weakness."
Hamas officials have accused Israel of causing the death of dozens of hostages held by Hamas. A Hamas official, Taher al-Nounou, accused Benjamin Netanyahu of continuing to lie, deceive, and try to mislead the public.
The UN Security Council held an emergency meeting on Sunday at the initiative of several European countries. The meeting discussed the potential impact of Israel's military plans on the civilian population in Gaza and the wider region.
As the situation continues to evolve, official Israeli government and defense statements will provide the most current and detailed updates on the situation.
- Amidst growing concerns, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's announced military plan to take full control of Gaza, intended to dismantle Hamas's military capabilities and governance, has sparked intense debate on the international stage, with the UN Security Council holding an emergency meeting to discuss its potential humanitarian impact.
- Despite the prospect of intensified conflict, the Israeli security cabinet has simultaneously approved a plan to ensure the safety of the civilian population, allowing them to evacuate combat zones, access humanitarian aid, and opening "protected corridors" for their safety, with the GHF increasing aid distribution sites.
