Netanyahu Announces Gaza City Takeover Plan, Sparking Controversy

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, speaking from Jerusalem, announced plans for the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to prepare to take control of Gaza City. The statement indicated that humanitarian aid would be provided to civilians outside of combat zones. Gaza City, located in the northern part of the Gaza Strip, is the largest city in the area.

Reports suggest the plan involves evacuating Palestinian civilians from Gaza City before a ground offensive. In an interview, Netanyahu stated Israel's intention to take over the entire coastal territory, but clarified that they do not intend to govern it. Instead, Israel aims to establish a security perimeter and hand over governance to Arab forces.

These comments were made ahead of a meeting with senior ministers to discuss expanding military control in Gaza. A previous meeting with the military chief was reportedly tense, with the military chief expressing reservations about expanding the campaign. Netanyahu's office stated that most cabinet members believe the alternative plan presented would not achieve the defeat of Hamas or the return of hostages.

Discussions are underway regarding a phased takeover of areas in Gaza not yet under military control. This could involve issuing evacuation warnings to Palestinians in specific areas, potentially giving them several weeks before military action. A complete takeover would reverse Israel's 2005 withdrawal from Gaza, which left Israel in control of borders, airspace, and utilities.

The potential expansion of military operations has drawn criticism. Hamas has called Netanyahu's comments a "blatant coup" against the negotiation process. Arab countries have indicated they will only support what Palestinians agree upon. Opinion polls show that many Israelis want the war to end with a deal that would see the release of the remaining hostages.