Israel’s Security Cabinet Approves Gaza Control Plan

Early Friday, Israel’s political security cabinet confirmed a strategy to take control of Gaza. This decision comes as military actions expand, facing increasing criticism both domestically and internationally over the conflict that has persisted for two years.

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) are preparing to manage Gaza City while also aiming to assist civilians outside of active combat zones, according to a statement from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office.

On Thursday, Netanyahu expressed the intention for Israel to gain military oversight of the entire Gaza Strip. However, the approval focused specifically on Gaza City, the largest urban area in the enclave located to the north.

Axios reporter Barak Ravid mentioned via X that plans include evacuating Palestinian civilians from Gaza City in conjunction with an offensive ground initiative.

When asked about a potential full takeover of the coastal area, Netanyahu told Fox News that “we intend” to take such actions.

He mentioned, however, that the goal is to hand over control to Arab forces governing the region, though he did not specify which countries might be involved or the governance structure.

“We don’t want to maintain it. We seek a security line and do not wish to act as governing bodies,” he stated.

Israeli officials described some earlier military meetings as tense, with military chief Eir Zamir resisting expanded military campaigns.

There are ongoing discussions about gradually acquiring the Gaza region. An anonymous government source noted that evacuation notices might soon be issued to civilians in certain areas, potentially giving them weeks before any military actions commence.

Netanyahu’s office conveyed that most political security cabinet members believe the alternative plans presented will not successfully defeat Hamas or secure the release of hostages.

A complete cabinet resolution is pending approval, which may not happen until Sunday.

“A Blatant Coup”

If Israel goes ahead with full control over Gaza, it would reverse a decision made in 2005 to withdraw troops and civilians, significantly tightening restrictions on borders, airspace, and utilities.

Right-wing factions have criticized Hamas for withdrawing from governance after the group gained power in a 2006 election.

It remains unclear if Netanyahu plans a long-term occupation or simply short-term management, as Israel has consistently declared its intention to dismantle Hamas and rescue Israeli hostages.

Hamas condemned Netanyahu’s statement as “a blatant coup,” claiming that his aggressive actions aim to prioritize prisoner releases while sacrificing others.

A Jordanian official noted that Arab countries would only support decisions made by Palestinians, emphasizing that Gaza’s security should be overseen by “legal Palestinian institutions.”

Osama Hamdan from Hamas stated that any forces established to control Gaza will be viewed as occupying and linked to Israel.

Earlier this year, discussions between Israel and the United States included forming a Palestinian administrative committee to govern post-conflict Gaza, rejecting proposals backed by Arab leaders.

Polls indicate that a majority of Israelis favor concluding the war in a way that facilitates the release of remaining hostages.

The White House has yet to comment, while President Donald Trump has refrained from taking a stance on Israel’s potential military takeover of Gaza.

Netanyahu’s government continues to assert victory over Hamas, which instigated the war with a deadly attack from Gaza.

The UN has expressed serious concerns about the reality of potential Israeli military operations within Gaza.

This notion, largely promoted by far-right members of Netanyahu’s coalition, reflects existing military strategies focused on Israeli territories.

The Remaining Hostages

Currently, about 50 hostages are believed to be held in Gaza, with Israeli officials estimating that 20 are likely alive. Most recent releases have come through diplomatic negotiations.

Efforts toward a ceasefire have faced setbacks, particularly regarding the status of hostages since July.

A Palestinian official indicated that an increase in humanitarian aid facilitated by Arab intermediaries could urge a resumption of ceasefire talks.

Israeli authorities have accused Hamas of misappropriating aid meant for civilians, an assertion that Hamas denies.

A recent video of two released hostages showcased their frail conditions, leading to widespread international outcry.

Images highlighting the plight of hungry children in Gaza have also drawn global attention, amplifying criticism of Israel’s handling of the situation.

Although Hamas has governed Gaza for nearly two decades, it now controls only fragmented regions and insists any agreements must guarantee a permanent end to the war. Israel, on the other hand, maintains that Hamas cannot expect to retain power afterwards.