Jerusalem: In a significant and controversial move, the Israeli government has officially approved a plan for the military to seize full control of Gaza City, marking a pivotal shift in its ongoing offensive in the Gaza Strip. The decision, approved by Israel’s political-security cabinet on August 7–8, 2025, comes amid growing internal disagreements and international alarm over the humanitarian consequences of such action.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reaffirmed his government’s broader objective to establish military control over the entire Gaza Strip. He stated that while Israel does not intend to permanently govern Gaza, it seeks to establish a security buffer before handing over administration to Arab forces at a later stage. However, Netanyahu did not specify which Arab nations would assume this role, raising further skepticism and concern both domestically and abroad.
The proposed plan involves the evacuation of civilians from Gaza City to facilitate a large-scale ground operation. This move is expected to significantly escalate the already intense conflict, which has now entered its tenth month.
Despite the cabinet’s approval, the plan has encountered resistance from within Israel’s own military leadership. Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir warned of severe strategic and operational risks, including the potential for overstretching military resources and further endangering the hostages still held in Gaza. Although Zamir voiced opposition, he indicated that the military would comply with government directives if required to expand its operations.
The humanitarian situation in Gaza has reached a critical point. According to the World Health Organization, nearly 12,000 children under the age of five are suffering from acute malnutrition. The number of deaths attributed to starvation has surged to at least 188, with many more at risk due to the lack of food, water, and medical care.
The international community has reacted with concern and condemnation. The United Nations described Israel’s plan as deeply alarming and warned that it could lead to catastrophic humanitarian consequences. A spokesperson for the UN reiterated that any military expansion in such densely populated civilian areas would likely worsen the suffering of the population and place remaining hostages at even greater risk.
Arab nations have also pushed back against the Israeli proposal. A senior Jordanian official stated that no Arab country would agree to take control of Gaza unless it was part of a plan approved by the Palestinian people. This response casts doubt on Netanyahu’s vision for a post-conflict administration of Gaza by external actors.
As the situation continues to deteriorate, pressure is mounting on the Israeli government to reconsider its strategy. Both international leaders and humanitarian organizations are calling for an immediate de-escalation and renewed diplomatic efforts to end the conflict and avert further civilian casualties.
The coming days are likely to be critical, as the region braces for what could become a decisive phase in the Gaza war, with far-reaching implications for regional stability and the prospects of future peace negotiations.