Asger Risom
Netanyahu government greenlights plan to seize entire enclave, backs controversial “voluntary departure” initiative
Israel’s security cabinet has formally approved a plan to take full military control of the Gaza Strip, including the complete occupation of the enclave and efforts to promote what it terms the “voluntary departure” of its Palestinian residents, according to an official Israeli source cited by AFP.
The plan was passed overnight Sunday into Monday, as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated his commitment to expanding military operations and advancing the so-called “Trump plan,” which encourages Gazans to leave the territory. This controversial proposal has drawn sharp international criticism, AFP notes.
The new directive authorizes Israeli forces to capture and hold territory across the Strip, expanding on current operations that already have Israel controlling about one-third of Gaza.
Troop Mobilization and Humanitarian Aid Plans
Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir, the chief of Israel’s military, confirmed on Sunday that tens of thousands of reservists have received call-up orders as part of this expanded campaign. The decision follows the collapse of a U.S.-backed ceasefire earlier this year that had temporarily paused hostilities for two months.
As reported by HotNews.ro, the cabinet also approved a limited humanitarian aid strategy aimed at preventing Hamas from commandeering supplies. An Israeli political source stated that while the enclave remains under blockade, authorities believe there is currently “sufficient food” inside Gaza.
The new humanitarian aid policy—though vague on timelines—allows for potential aid deliveries under tight supervision, with the aim of dismantling Hamas’ administrative capabilities.
Mounting International Pressure
Israel continues to face growing diplomatic pressure to ease its blockade on Gaza. The government maintains that restrictions are necessary to prevent Hamas from diverting aid for militant use—a charge the group denies.
The military campaign stems from Hamas’ October 7, 2023 assault on Israeli territory, which left 1,200 people dead and saw 251 hostages taken, according to Israeli officials. Since then, over 52,000 Palestinians have reportedly been killed during Israeli operations in Gaza, according to local health authorities.
The Israeli government’s new stance signals a significant escalation in its Gaza strategy, one likely to deepen geopolitical divides and humanitarian concerns in the region.