JERUSALEM: The Israeli government is reportedly on the brink of authorizing a full military takeover of the Gaza Strip, marking a possible return to direct control of the enclave two decades after its 2005 disengagement. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is expected to convene a crucial security cabinet meeting this week, during which a decision may be made to extend military operations to all remaining areas of Gaza.
The plan, if approved, would see Israel’s military take control of the final Hamas-controlled zones, including areas believed to be holding Israeli hostages. This decision comes as part of an intensifying military campaign launched in May under “Operation Gideon’s Chariots,” which has already placed roughly 75% of Gaza under Israeli control. Strategically significant security corridors, such as the Philadelphi, Morag, and Netzarim routes, have already divided Gaza and isolated key resistance pockets.
The proposed move has triggered sharp internal debate. While right-wing cabinet members, including National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, are in favor of annexing Gaza and resettling evacuated areas, top military officials have voiced strong concerns. IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir and other commanders have warned that a full occupation could endanger hostages, overstretch Israeli forces, and result in long-term responsibilities that Israel is unprepared to manage.
Nineteen former security and intelligence officials have released a joint statement cautioning against permanent occupation, warning it would harm both Israel's global standing and national security. Despite the warnings, Prime Minister Netanyahu appears inclined to pursue the strategy, according to reports from Israeli media.
The humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate, with over 60,000 Palestinians reportedly killed since the conflict reignited in October 2023. With basic infrastructure crippled and widespread displacement, international aid groups have described conditions in parts of Gaza as “famine-like.” In response to growing pressure, Israel has recently permitted the entry of limited goods via private merchants, allowing items such as baby formula and hygiene supplies to reach civilians.
Diplomatically, Israel is facing increasing isolation. Several Western nations, including France, Britain, and Canada, are reportedly considering unilateral recognition of a Palestinian state if a ceasefire is not reached before the UN General Assembly convenes in September. Germany is also under growing internal pressure to review its support for Israel, with senior lawmakers suggesting sanctions could be necessary.
The Israeli cabinet’s final decision could mark a historic turning point in the conflict, with far-reaching implications for military engagement, humanitarian access, and regional diplomacy. As the situation escalates, the world is watching closely to see whether Israel will commit to reoccupying Gaza fully—a move that could reshape the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East.