Israel Approves Plan to Take Control of Gaza City
Israel Approves Plan to Take Control of Gaza City
Published: August 8, 2025 · ENS | Global Affairs
Israel’s security cabinet has authorized a military operation to occupy Gaza City in a move intended to defeat Hamas and expedite the return of hostages. Although Prime Minister Netanyahu aims to extend control over the entire Gaza Strip, the current plan focuses solely on the enclave’s largest urban area. 1
The cabinet agreed on five key objectives: disarmament of Hamas, demilitarization of Gaza, Israeli security oversight, establishment of a civilian authority not aligned with Hamas or the Palestinian Authority, and the safe return of hostages. 2
The operation may involve the displacement of approximately one million residents from Gaza City. Critics—both domestic and international—warn the move could worsen the humanitarian crisis, endanger hostages, and escalate the conflict. 3
- Strategic escalation: Marks a significant intensification of Israel's military campaign in Gaza.
- Divided leadership: IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir warned the plan could imperil hostages and complicate military operations. 4
- International backlash: Global leaders have raised concerns over legal and ethical implications. 5
Israel maintains it does not seek permanent governance of Gaza. Instead, the goal is to establish perimeter security before ceding control to unspecified “Arab forces.” 6
Source: Axios, The Guardian, Reuters via The National