Israeli officials convene to assess a complete takeover of Gaza, a move warned against by the UN due to potential humanitarian fallout, while discussions around hostages and military strategies unfold.
Israeli Security Cabinet Contemplates Full Gaza Occupation Amidst Rising Tensions
Israeli Security Cabinet Contemplates Full Gaza Occupation Amidst Rising Tensions
Prime Minister Netanyahu's push for total military control of Gaza faces criticism and concerns for hostages and civilians.
Israeli officials are set to gather for a crucial security cabinet meeting Thursday to deliberate on the possibility of a full military occupation of the Gaza Strip, an action that the United Nations warns could have "catastrophic consequences." As the conflict intensifies, Israeli media reports indicate that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu views this strategy as essential for dismantling Hamas and rescuing hostages captured by the militant group amid failing ceasefire negotiations.
The evolving situation highlights a divide among Israeli leadership, with military leaders and ministers expressing concerns about the implications for both hostages and Palestinian lives. Miroslav Jenča, a senior UN official, recently cautioned the UN Security Council that such a takeover would violate international law and is a deeply alarming scenario.
Currently, the Israeli military oversees approximately three-quarters of Gaza, with the war having caused extensive displacement among the local populace. Further military action would likely exacerbate humanitarian crises, pushing more residents from their homes.
The security cabinet meeting is set for 18:00 local time (15:00 GMT), with discussions anticipated to focus on plans requiring a significant troop deployment to take control of Gaza City and adjacent areas, which would involve relocating its residents southward. Additionally, efforts are expected to target refugee camps and locations where hostages might be confined.
Complicating matters, U.S. ambassador to Israel, Mike Huckabee, mentioned on Fox News a forthcoming increase in food distribution efforts by the Israel- and U.S.-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation. Nevertheless, this aid initiative has faced harsh criticism from the UN and humanitarian groups for its disorganization and the dangerous conditions for those in search of food, with multiple casualties reported at distribution sites.
As the humanitarian crisis reaches critical levels, many areas are inching toward famine conditions due to stringent Israeli restrictions on supplies aimed at curtailing Hamas's capabilities. Amidst these circumstances, Netanyahu appears to be leaning toward a decisive military response, provoking concerns from military officials about the dangers such a total occupation might pose—especially regarding the safety of hostages.
Opposing the occupation strategy, IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir has suggested alternative measures like encircling Hamas positions, opting for minimal direct confrontations. Despite internal debate, reports suggest that the security cabinet is inclined to support Netanyahu's aggressive plans.
The situation surrounding hostages has become increasingly precarious, with families expressing fears that an extensive military push could lead to a dire outcome for their loved ones. U.S. President Donald Trump recently stated that the decision rests squarely with Israel, as indirect ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas remain stalled since their collapse two weeks prior.
The conflict erupted on October 7, 2023, following a deadly offensive by Hamas and has escalated into a significant military response from Israel, resulting in devastating casualties on both sides.
