Netanyahu Weighs Full Gaza Occupation, Fuels International Alarm/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is considering a complete military takeover of Gaza after 22 months of war, reversing the 2005 withdrawal. The move comes amid collapsed ceasefire talks, mounting civilian deaths, and escalating starvation across the enclave. Palestinian officials warn the proposal demands urgent global intervention.
Israel Gaza Strategy Quick Looks
- Netanyahu reportedly favors a full Gaza occupation for the first time since 2005
- Aid negotiations broke down; no ceasefire in sight
- Eight Palestinians died of hunger or malnutrition; 79 more from Israeli strikes
- Military meeting held with Netanyahu, Defence Minister and Chief of Staff
- Unclear if occupation would be temporary or long-term
- Palestinian leadership calls on international community to respond urgently
- Far-right coalition figures push for annexation and Palestinian displacement
- The Israeli military, under strain, resists prolonged control of Gaza
- Hunger crisis: 188+ Palestinians dead from starvation, including 94 children
- International recognition of Palestine rises as global outrage grows
Deep Look: Netanyahu’s Gaza Takeover Plan Emerges Amid Hunger Crisis
TEL AVIV / CAIRO — After nearly two years of conflict, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is evaluating a complete military takeover of Gaza, a significant policy shift that would reverse Israel’s 2005 withdrawal. According to Israeli media, he is convening with top security officials to finalize the strategy.
Strategic Shift and Failed Diplomacy
Netanyahu, along with Defence Minister Israel Katz and Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir, is set to craft a new plan for cabinet approval. The proposal marks a decisive pivot in the 22-month-old war, aiming to dismantle Hamas’ control and secure hostage releases.
Mediation efforts, including a U.S.-backed 60-day truce proposal tied to hostage exchanges, collapsed this week. As negotiations faltered, starvation deaths continue to rise and Israeli strikes bring the overall death toll above 61,000.
Civilian Crisis Intensifies
Gaza’s health ministry reported eight recent deaths from starvation or malnutrition, and 79 more from Israeli fire within 24 hours. The total number of hunger-related deaths has reached 188, including 94 children.
“If the tanks pushed through, where would we go, into the sea? This will be like a death sentence,” said Gaza resident Abu Jehad, describing fears in areas not yet occupied.
While Israeli officials concede food shortages exist, they reject assertions of a full-scale famine.
Domestic Friction Within Israel
Netanyahu’s coalition—the most conservative in Israel’s history—includes figures advocating annexation of both Gaza and the West Bank. National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir challenged military leadership to comply fully with government directives. In contrast, the military has long opposed mounting the occupation of Gaza, citing manpower strain and moral implications.
Defence Minister Katz stated, “Defeating Hamas … and securing hostage returns are central goals,” asserting that the military will carry out whatever civil directives are issued.
International Warning Signals
The Palestinian Foreign Ministry urged global leaders to treat leaks of the occupation plan seriously—whether as pressure tactics or actual policy proposals.
Meanwhile, international backlash is mounting. Multiple nations have moved to recognize Palestine, citing the humanitarian catastrophe. Gaza’s population, displaced and besieged, confronts an unfolding famine, refugee crisis, and widespread devastation.
What Lies Ahead?
If Israel proceeds, the nature and duration of occupation remain uncertain. Will it be a temporary operation to dismantle Hamas control—or become a long-term military administration? The deepening crisis may push Israel into international condemnation and legal scrutiny.
Netanyahu’s next moves—military deployment, cabinet approvals, or new humanitarian measures—could redefine regional dynamics. As the world watches, the Gaza situation threatens to become one of the most profound global humanitarian emergencies of recent times.
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