Jerusalem – Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reportedly signaled a significant shift in Israel’s military and political strategy regarding the Gaza Strip, stating that a decision has been made to move forward with a full occupation of the territory, according to local media and sources close to the Prime Minister’s Office.
The Israeli Security Cabinet is scheduled to convene on Tuesday to discuss and potentially approve the proposed expansion of operations into areas of Gaza not yet controlled by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), including locations believed to be harboring Israeli hostages.
“We are committing to free Gaza from the tyranny of these terrorists,” Netanyahu said Monday in a public address posted on X. “Many Gazans come to us and say, ‘Help us be free of Hamas.’ That is what we will do.”
A Deepening Rift Within Israeli Leadership
Netanyahu’s announcement follows months of internal disagreement within the Israeli leadership. According to Army Radio, tensions between Netanyahu and IDF Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir “have reached their peak.”
A statement from the Prime Minister’s Office directed to Zamir reportedly said:
“If this does not suit you, then you should resign.”
While Netanyahu appears to be pushing for expanded operations and occupation, Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar has previously stated that Israel has “no intention” of long-term control over Gaza, emphasizing security goals only.
Strategic Planning: The ‘Day After’ Hamas
Though Israel has not published a formal post-war plan, a 32-page proposal reviewed by Euronews, titled “Gaza Security and Recovery Program: How Should the Day After Look,” offers insight into possible strategies.
Drafted by the Israel Defence and Security Forum, a network of over 35,000 reservists, the proposal outlines a vision for Gaza following the elimination of Hamas:
- Israeli military oversight of Gaza’s administration
- Economic reconstruction and infrastructure rebuilding
- A process described as “de-Nazification” of Gaza’s institutions and ideology
- Exclusion of the Palestinian Authority, UNRWA, and any prospects of Palestinian statehood
Though not a finalized government plan, officials confirm the document is being considered. Knesset members from the far-right National Religious Party, including Simcha Rothman and Ohad Tal, have publicly endorsed its core principles.
Hostage Crisis Driving Military Escalation
The potential reoccupation comes amid growing domestic pressure on Israel’s government to recover approximately 50 remaining hostages, both alive and dead, held in Gaza.
The hostage issue reached new urgency last week after Hamas released a disturbing video showing emaciated Israeli captives, including one allegedly forced to dig his own grave. These images deeply shocked the Israeli public and increased demands for a forceful response.
Channel 12 journalist Amit Segal, citing a source in Netanyahu’s office, reported:
“The decision has been made… we are going to occupy the Gaza Strip. Hamas will not release hostages without total surrender. If we do not act now, the hostages will die of starvation, and Hamas will retain control of Gaza.”
Diplomacy and Ceasefire Talks Falter
Israel’s move follows months of unsuccessful ceasefire negotiations facilitated by Qatar and others. Despite recent visits by U.S. Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff, efforts to broker a ceasefire and hostage release appear to have collapsed.
Meanwhile, international pressure on Israel has intensified, particularly over humanitarian concerns. Critics have accused Israel of exacerbating famine conditions in Gaza, although several viral images of severely malnourished children have since been attributed to pre-existing medical conditions.
The Israeli government has dismissed calls for a ceasefire that do not involve the unconditional release of hostages and the full dismantling of Hamas.
The Trump Factor: Resettlement Controversy
Netanyahu also referred to current U.S. President Donald Trump’s plan to resettle Gaza’s population elsewhere—proposals that drew condemnation from regional governments and human rights organizations, who argue that forced population transfers would violate international law.
Trump had envisioned transforming Gaza into the “Riviera of the Middle East”, featuring luxury resorts and commercial centers. Netanyahu said:
“We will implement Trump’s plan. Those in Gaza who want to leave, can leave.”
Military Caution vs. Political Pressure
Despite calls from some ministers—including Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir—to rebuild dismantled Jewish settlements and fully reoccupy Gaza, military leaders reportedly remain skeptical.
According to Israeli media, the IDF is expected to present alternative strategies during Tuesday’s cabinet meeting, emphasizing operational caution and long-term sustainability.
What Comes Next?
Tuesday’s Security Cabinet meeting could mark a turning point in the nearly two-year war against Hamas. The outcome will determine whether Israel moves toward a full military occupation of Gaza—despite widespread concern from international allies and some internal opposition.
Key questions remain:
- Will a full occupation achieve Israel’s security and hostage goals?
- Can a post-Hamas Gaza function under prolonged military oversight?
- What are the geopolitical ramifications of rejecting Palestinian statehood outright?
As the situation evolves, one certainty remains: Israel’s Gaza strategy is entering a new, more complex phase—militarily, diplomatically, and politically.
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