Israel’s security cabinet has approved Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s plan to launch a full military takeover of Gaza City, a move drawing sharp criticism from international leaders and humanitarian groups. The operation is being framed as part of Israel’s goal to “defeat Hamas,” but aid agencies warn it could cause a massive humanitarian disaster in the already-besieged Palestinian territory.
According to the Prime Minister’s Office, the Israel Defense Forces will prepare to take full control of Gaza City while allowing limited humanitarian aid to civilians outside combat areas. The plan still requires final approval from Israel’s full government cabinet, expected to meet by Sunday.
Reports suggest the military strategy includes forcing all remaining civilians out of Gaza City and moving them to central refugee camps by October 7. A ground offensive would follow, with the remaining Hamas fighters surrounded and cut off. This would likely lead to another wave of mass displacement for tens of thousands of people already enduring intense bombing and severe shortages of food, water, and medical supplies.
Gaza’s Ministry of Health says nearly 200 people have already died from starvation and malnutrition as aid access remains restricted. The United Nations and other humanitarian organizations warn that occupying Gaza City will make food delivery and medical relief even more difficult, worsening famine conditions.
Netanyahu has told international media that Israel does not plan to govern Gaza permanently, instead aiming to create a security perimeter and eventually hand control to an unnamed third party. But uncertainty over what comes next, and who would take over, is fueling concern among global observers.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump has signaled support for Netanyahu’s approach, saying it is “up to the Israelis” to decide their course of action.
Gaza City, once the most densely populated area in the strip, has been heavily destroyed since the war began in October 2023. Many residents fled under earlier Israeli evacuation orders but returned during a brief ceasefire earlier this year. If the takeover plan moves ahead, thousands more will be forced into overcrowded refugee camps with limited access to basic necessities.
If Netanyahu’s proposal is approved by the full cabinet this weekend, ground operations could begin within days, a move that may push Gaza deeper into one of its worst humanitarian crises in history.
