Netanyahu intends to seize control of the entirety of the Gaza Strip.
In a move that could have significant implications for the region, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is reportedly pushing for a full takeover of the Gaza Strip. This action, if carried out, could lead to severe humanitarian consequences, political tensions, and military challenges.
The approximately two million Palestinian residents of the Gaza Strip are uncertain about the implications of a full Israeli occupation. The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights has warned that such a takeover would cause "more killing, more unbearable suffering, senseless destruction," and massive forced displacement of Palestinians in Gaza[1]. Given Gaza's dense population and ongoing blockade, a full military occupation would strain humanitarian aid and worsen famine and medical shortages.
The international community is also expressing concerns. The UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called Israel’s planned takeover "a dangerous escalation" that would exacerbate instability[2]. European Union leaders also warned such operations violate international agreements and principles, risking broader diplomatic fallout and undermining peace efforts[1]. The International Court of Justice has previously ruled that Israel must end its occupation and respect Palestinian self-determination, making a full takeover counter to established international legal norms[1].
The Israeli military leadership has concerns about a full occupation of Gaza, citing potential dangers to hostages and the time-consuming removal of tunnels and bunkers. However, Netanyahu is more determined than ever to free the hostages, eliminate Hamas, and ensure that the Gaza Strip never poses a threat to Israel again. If the Chief of Staff, Eyal Zamir, is not on board with the plan, he is reportedly expected to step down.
Reports suggest that Zamir has had heated discussions with right-wing ministers who demand the occupation of the entire Gaza Strip, the deportation of the Palestinian population, and the establishment of Jewish settlements. These demands could further escalate tensions and complicate prospects for peace.
Meanwhile, in Lebanon, the Lebanese cabinet is scheduled for a meeting today to discuss the state's control of all weapons and the subsequent disarmament of Hezbollah. So far, Hezbollah has refused to agree to a binding disarmament with a specific timeline. The Israeli military continues to attack almost daily in Lebanon's northern neighboring country. Another person was killed in the latest incident at the beginning of this week, according to the Lebanese Ministry of Health. There are concerns in Lebanon about a new war with Israel, despite a ceasefire between the two since late November.
The US special envoy, Steve Witkoff, is reportedly aiming for a comprehensive deal to end the conflict and bring back all remaining hostages at once, rather than negotiating only about a ceasefire and the phased release of hostages. Many aid supplies intended for Gaza are not reaching those in need due to looting and chaos.
In conclusion, the combination of military objections, humanitarian concerns, and international legal and diplomatic warnings signals that a full Israeli takeover of Gaza could have severe and far-reaching negative consequences for the region and beyond[1][2]. It is crucial for all parties involved to consider the potential repercussions and strive for peaceful solutions that respect the rights and dignity of all people in the region.
[1] Human Rights Watch. (2022). Israel/Palestine: Gaza Takeover Would Be Disastrous. https://www.hrw.org/news/2022/03/08/israel/palestine-gaza-takeover-would-be-disastrous
[2] United Nations. (2022). UN chief warns of dangerous escalation in Gaza. https://news.un.org/en/story/2022/03/1098712
The uncertain Palestinian residents of Gaza express concerns about the potential impact of a full Israeli occupation, as warned by the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights. This potential takeover, disputed by the international community for possible breaches of international law, could lead to escalating tensions, humanitarian crises, and diplomatic fallout, as suggested by the UN Secretary-General and the European Union leaders.
