Israel has approved plans to capture the entire Gaza Strip and maintain a presence in the territory for an unspecified duration. This decision, made by Israeli cabinet ministers in an early morning vote, could significantly expand Israel’s operations in the Palestinian region and likely provoke strong international opposition. The plan also involves the movement of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians to southern Gaza, potentially leading to forced displacement and worsening an already severe humanitarian crisis.
Although details of the plan have not been formally announced, the timing and implementation remain unclear. The decision follows an announcement from Israel’s military chief regarding the call-up of tens of thousands of reservists. This move could be part of Israel’s strategy to pressure Hamas into making concessions in ceasefire negotiations. It is suggested that the plan will not commence until after President Donald Trump concludes his visit to the Middle East, indicating a possible interim ceasefire agreement.
Israel withdrew its troops from Gaza in 2005 after decades of occupation. However, following repeated attacks from the territory, Israel, along with Egypt, imposed a blockade. Reoccupying the territory indefinitely could further diminish hopes for a Palestinian state and raise questions on governance amidst a hostile population, especially considering Israel’s deliberations on implementing President Trump’s vision for Gaza control.
Since a ceasefire collapsed in mid-March between Israel and Hamas, Israeli attacks have intensified, resulting in the deaths of hundreds and control of approximately 50% of Gaza. Prior to ending the truce, Israel blocked humanitarian aid, including food, fuel, and water, triggering what is believed to be the worst humanitarian crisis in nearly 19 months of conflict. The conflict began when Hamas-led militants attacked southern Israel on October 7, 2023, causing 1,200 deaths and taking around 250 hostages. Israel reports that 59 captives remain in Gaza, with an estimated 35 believed dead.
The Israeli offensive has displaced over 90% of Gaza’s population, with health officials reporting over 52,000 deaths, including many women and children. The counts do not differentiate between fighters and civilians. The Palestinian Health Ministry in Gaza reported that 33 bodies were brought to hospitals following Israeli airstrikes in the last 24 hours. The Israeli military has not commented on these attacks.
Israel aims to increase pressure on Hamas, with officials confirming a plan to “capture the strip and retain territories.” Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced a “powerful operation in Gaza,” involving the relocation of the population for their protection. The plan seeks to prevent Hamas from distributing humanitarian aid, accusing the group of bolstering its control through aid, although no evidence has been provided for such claims.
Israel is discussing President Trump’s Gaza control plan with multiple countries, proposing what it describes as “voluntary emigration,” which has faced widespread condemnation, including from European countries, with rights groups warning it could constitute a war crime.
The announcement of Israel’s expansion has angered families of hostages, concerned about the potential risks to their loved ones. The Hostages and Missing Families Forum urged Israeli decision-makers to prioritize securing a swift agreement for the hostages’ release. During a Knesset committee meeting, a parent of a hostage implored soldiers to refrain from reserve service on moral and ethical grounds. Some reservists have expressed reluctance to serve in a conflict perceived as politically motivated.
The defense official indicated that the plan involves “separating” Hamas from aid using private companies and army-secured areas, with Palestinians undergoing screenings to prevent Hamas access. Israel informed the United Nations of employing private security firms to manage aid distribution in Gaza. However, the UN has voiced concerns over the plan, stating it contradicts its core principles.
A memo, seen by various aid groups, outlines that all aid would enter Gaza via the Kerem Shalom crossing, with distribution managed through roughly 60 daily trucks. Facial recognition technology is intended for identifying Palestinians at logistical centers, with text alerts notifying individuals when aid is ready for collection. The UN and aid groups oppose using armed or uniformed personnel for distribution, fearing potential intimidation or risks to Palestinians.
Hamas has condemned Israel’s efforts to control humanitarian aid distribution in Gaza, labeling it a violation of international law. The group claims the initiative is part of a broader strategy of “hunger policy” by the Israeli government.
