Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is reportedly set to propose a complete reoccupation of the Gaza Strip during an upcoming meeting with his security cabinet, according to various Israeli media outlets. A senior official is quoted as saying, “The die has been cast. We're going for the full conquest of the Gaza Strip – and defeating Hamas.” This proposal comes amidst growing internal and external pressures, with military leaders within Israel expressing opposition to the plan.
Fears loom among families of hostages held by Hamas, as 20 out of 50 individuals are believed to still be alive in Gaza. Recent polls indicate that approximately 75% of Israelis support a ceasefire to facilitate the return of these hostages. The international community, particularly close allies of Israel, would likely condemn such a reoccupation, advocating instead for efforts to end the war and address the ongoing humanitarian crisis.
In a recent joint letter to U.S. President Donald Trump, hundreds of retired Israeli security officials, including former intelligence leaders, urged the U.S. to prompt Netanyahu to cease military actions in Gaza. Ami Ayalon, a notable signatory and ex-chief of Israel’s domestic intelligence agency, expressed that further military engagement would achieve little at this point.
Conversations regarding a ceasefire and hostage negotiations have stalled, exacerbated by the release of distressing videos showing two Israeli hostages in poor condition. Israeli military officials claim they already control approximately 75% of Gaza, yet the proposed full occupation would intrude into densely populated Palestinian areas, raising significant questions about the repercussions for civilians and humanitarian organizations that struggle to deliver aid.
The Palestinian Authority has condemned the proposal, urging international intervention to thwart any potential military actions. Recent calls from far-right Israeli ministers for full annexation of Gaza have only intensified tensions. In 2005, Israel had previously dismantled its settlements and withdrew military forces from the area, although strict control over its borders remained in place.
Emerging amidst attempts by the international community to revive the two-state solution—an enduring framework to resolve the conflict—the implications of reoccupying Gaza amidst renewed global discussions on Palestinian statehood cannot be overlooked. Israeli army radio states that a security cabinet meeting is forthcoming, intending to deliberate on initial military strategies, including encirclement of refugee camps and planned airstrikes.
Media analysts have characterized Netanyahu's proposed gamble as unprecedented and questioned its feasibility, suggesting that his focus may be more on extending the conflict rather than achieving concrete military objectives. The ongoing military offensive was ignited in response to a Hamas-led attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, which resulted in significant loss of life and numerous individuals taken hostage.
