Netanyahu mulls annexing Gaza in entirety, according to news reports
The Israeli government, led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, is planning a full occupation of the Gaza Strip as part of a new military offensive against Hamas. According to reports from Channel 12 TV and the Israeli daily "The Jerusalem Post," citing insiders from Netanyahu's office, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) will begin occupying the entire Gaza Strip, including Gaza City, with the aim of establishing a security perimeter and eventually handing governance over to Arab forces[1].
This plan follows recent cabinet discussions and comes amid heightened tensions after the release of Hamas horror videos. The operation is expected to last several months and could displace around one million Palestinian civilians. The IDF will also attempt to enter areas where hostages are believed to be held, posing significant risks to their lives[1].
The operation has sparked concern and opposition both within Israel and internationally. Notable opposition within Israel's military leadership includes the top general and senior security officials, who caution against the operation[1]. They argue that Hamas no longer poses a strategic threat to Israel, as stated in a letter from hundreds of former Israeli security officials, including former intelligence chiefs[2].
International pressure to halt the offensive and address the humanitarian crisis is significant. French President Emmanuel Macron has reacted angrily to the situation, stating that Hamas represents "horrible cruelty, boundless inhumanity." Macron's solution is "that of two states, Israel and Palestine, living peacefully side by side"[3]. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has expressed shock at the Hamas videos and emphasized that a negotiated ceasefire is initially unavoidable, with the release of all hostages being a prerequisite[4].
Johann Wadephul, the German Foreign Minister, has also expressed shock at the Hamas videos and stated that they show "the full brutality of their tormentors." He, like Merz, believes that Hamas should not play a role in Gaza in the future[5].
As the situation escalates, the Israeli government has not issued a statement regarding Netanyahu's decision to fully occupy the Gaza Strip. The Prime Minister has, however, stated that they are in the midst of an intense war and have achieved significant, historic successes[6]. He is scheduled to convene his cabinet on Tuesday to make a decision on the matter[7].
[1] Channel 12 TV and The Jerusalem Post [2] The letter from former security officials [3] Macron's statement [4] German Chancellor Friedrich Merz's statement [5] Johann Wadephul's statement [6] Netanyahu's statement [7] Information from Israeli media sources
- The escalating Gaza Strip conflict, with its political implications and potential environmental impact due to the displacement of one million civilians, is a matter of general news and has sparked international concern, including war-and-conflicts discussions and calls for a ceasefire.
- Amidst this, the Commission, as reported, has been asked to submit a proposal for a regulation on the protection of the environment, considering the possible devastation the conflict may cause.
