The Israeli government has approved a controversial plan to take full control of Gaza and maintain a long-term military presence in the territory, senior officials confirmed on Monday.
The decision is a dramatic escalation of the conflict, with the Israeli military set to take over strategic areas and exclude any form of Palestinian independence. According to the plan, Israel will have sovereignty over the entire land, control all movement, and oversee security operations for the near future.
The move follows months of heavy fighting and air raids have reduced much of Gaza to rubble. Israeli authorities say the action is necessary to annihilate Hamas and block any future strikes on Israeli territory.
A senior official, who preferred not to be named, said the goal was to “completely demilitarize Gaza and not permit hostile forces to regroup.” The military will supposedly manage all border crossings and infrastructure, and civil services will be run under close supervision.
Flashback: In October 2023, following a deadly surprise attack by Hamas that had killed over 1,000 Israelis, Israel launched a wide-ranging operation in Gaza. The combat claimed thousands of lives, mostly Palestinians, and triggered a global outcry over the humanitarian crisis.
The new plan has been condemned already by several countries and human rights organizations, stating that Israel’s long-term occupation of Gaza would amount to occupation. The U.S. has called for a temporary mission alone, while the United Nations continues to urge both sides to restart negotiations.
Despite the criticism, Israeli officials insist the plan remains in place. The world must understand the danger Hamas and other militant groups in Gaza represent, they argue.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reportedly approved the plan last week, following emergency talks with cabinet members and military officials. The soldiers are expected to increase their ground deployment in the coming days.
Meanwhile, Palestinian authorities have condemned the plan as a violation of their rights and sovereignty. “This is a complete takeover under the guise of a security measure,” said a Palestinian Authority spokesman.
Tensions remain high across the area. Aid agencies have warned that any further escalation will worsen the humanitarian crisis, with food, water, and medical supplies already in short supply in much of Gaza.
No timeline has been released yet for when Israel plans to reduce or end its presence in Gaza. The world holds its breath as fears grow that the new plan will bring long-term instability.
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