Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is expected to propose a full reoccupation of the Gaza Strip during an upcoming security cabinet meeting, according to reports in Israeli media. The move would mark a major escalation in the ongoing conflict and has already drawn criticism from both military officials and international observers.
A senior government official quoted in the Israeli press said: “The die has been cast. We’re going for the full conquest of the Gaza Strip – and defeating Hamas.” When asked about resistance from military leaders, the source reportedly responded, “If that doesn’t work for the chief of staff, he should resign.”
Military, Public, and International Pushback
Despite the assertive language, Netanyahu’s reported plan faces opposition from Israeli military leadership, who are concerned about the risks such a move could pose—especially for the hostages still held in Gaza. Families of those kidnapped by Hamas have voiced fear that a deeper ground invasion could further endanger their loved ones.
Of the 50 known hostages still in Gaza, only 20 are believed to be alive. Recent videos released by Palestinian groups showed two Israeli hostages in visibly deteriorating health. One, Evyatar David, appeared digging what he claimed was his own grave inside a tunnel.
Polls suggest the majority of Israelis—three in four—now favor a ceasefire deal to secure the hostages’ return over continuing military operations.
Voices Within Israel Urge Restraint
A group of hundreds of retired Israeli security officials, including former heads of intelligence agencies, has sent a letter to former U.S. President Donald Trump, urging him to pressure Netanyahu to end the war.
Ami Ayalon, former head of Israel’s domestic intelligence service, told the BBC: “Militarily, Hamas is destroyed. But ideologically, it is gaining strength not just among Palestinians, but across the Arab world and the broader Islamic community. The only way to defeat that ideology is by offering a better future.”
On the Ground: A Dire Humanitarian Crisis
The Israeli military claims to have operational control over 75% of Gaza. Netanyahu’s proposed plan would extend this to the entire territory—home to more than two million Palestinians—raising immediate concerns about civilian safety and humanitarian operations.
Over 90% of Gaza’s population has been displaced, many repeatedly. Aid agencies warn of widespread hunger and accuse Israel of restricting the delivery of life-saving supplies.
Israel says it is allowing a limited resumption of private imports by local businesspeople, including food, hygiene products, and baby supplies, which were previously restricted over concerns that they were benefiting Hamas.
Strategic and Political Stakes
While the full scope of Netanyahu’s proposal remains unclear, Israeli Army Radio reports that military leaders will also discuss encircling central refugee camps and launching new air and ground operations.
The Palestinian Authority has condemned the idea, calling on the international community to act and prevent a new military occupation. Officials warn that such a move would crush ongoing efforts toward a two-state solution.
Some far-right Israeli ministers have openly called for the annexation of Gaza and rebuilding Jewish settlements—dismantled by Israel in 2005 when it withdrew from the territory.
A Gamble for Netanyahu?
Netanyahu’s renewed push for a total takeover of Gaza comes at a time when international pressure is mounting for a ceasefire and a return to negotiations. The UK, Canada, and France have recently signaled support for recognizing a Palestinian state—conditional on peace progress.
Commentators in the Israeli media have expressed skepticism over the Prime Minister’s intentions. Writing in Yedioth Ahronoth, columnist Nahum Barnea said, “Netanyahu has never taken a gamble on this scale before,” and questioned whether the plan reflects a genuine strategy or a political effort to prolong the war.
Israel began its offensive following Hamas’s October 7, 2023 attack, in which about 1,200 people were killed and 251 kidnapped. Since then, the Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza claims over 61,000 Palestinians have died.
The security cabinet meeting is expected to take place later this week, with Netanyahu reportedly set to outline the next phase of military operations.
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