The Israeli Security Cabinet has given the go-ahead to a plan to occupy the Gaza Strip, as confirmed by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office. This decision is significant considering the internal disagreements within Israel, with the military and its top commander expressing reservations, and public opinion being divided. The decision has also been met with non-interference from former US President Donald Trump.
This move is particularly interesting due to Trump’s past attempts to mediate a ceasefire, and his recent call to halt the conflict to alleviate the suffering in Gaza. The plan involves the occupation of key areas of Gaza, including Gaza City, which would result in the displacement of a million Palestinians. The Israeli military intends to enter areas where hostages are suspected to be held, raising concerns about their safety.
Reports suggest that a video released by Hamas, showing an Israeli hostage, may have swayed Trump’s stance. Netanyahu and his supporters claim that only military pressure can bring Hamas to the negotiating table. In contrast, Israeli Chief of Staff General Eyal Zamir cautioned that the operation could endanger the hostages and lead to Israel assuming responsibility for the entire Palestinian population in Gaza.