Israel to Take Control of Gaza City, Sparking International Outcry

The Israeli military is set to assume control of Gaza City, according to a new plan approved by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's security cabinet. This decision has sparked widespread criticism both domestically and internationally. The announcement comes nearly two years into the ongoing conflict, as Netanyahu faces growing pressure to negotiate a truce, alleviate the humanitarian crisis, and secure the release of hostages held by Palestinian militants.

Hamas, Israel's adversary, has condemned the plan as a "new war crime." Furthermore, Germany, a key Israeli ally, has taken the unusual step of suspending military exports due to concerns about their potential use in Gaza. The Israeli Prime Minister's office stated that the army will prepare to take control of Gaza City while simultaneously providing humanitarian aid to civilians outside of active combat zones.

Prior to this decision, Netanyahu had expressed Israel's intention to gain complete control of the Gaza Strip, but clarified that they did not intend to govern it. He stated that Israel seeks a "security perimeter" and aims to hand over the Palestinian territory to "Arab forces" for governance. Israel previously occupied Gaza from 1967 until its withdrawal of troops and settlers in 2005.

The security cabinet, according to Netanyahu's office, approved "five principles," including the demilitarization of the territory and the establishment of a civil administration that is neither Hamas nor the Palestinian Authority. This new plan has drawn immediate criticism from various countries and international bodies.

The UN human rights chief, Volker Turk, called for the plan to be "immediately halted," urging Israel to allow unrestricted humanitarian aid and demanding the unconditional release of hostages by Palestinian armed groups. A Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson emphasized that Gaza belongs to the Palestinian people and called for an immediate ceasefire to address the humanitarian crisis and secure the release of hostages.

In a significant development, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced the suspension of military shipments to Israel, citing concerns about the plan's effectiveness in achieving legitimate goals. He stated that the German government would not authorize any exports of military equipment that could be used in the Gaza Strip until further notice.