Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is reportedly going to suggest a plan to completely take over the Gaza Strip again. This news comes from Israeli media and has sparked a lot of discussion and concern.
Why Is This Happening?
According to reports, a top official said, “We’re going for the full conquest of the Gaza Strip – and defeating Hamas.” This official also reportedly said that if the military leaders don’t agree, they should resign. This shows there is some disagreement within Israel’s government and military about this plan.
What Are the Concerns?
This plan is very controversial. Here’s why:
- Hostage Safety: The families of Israeli hostages still in Gaza are worried. They believe this plan could put their loved ones in danger. Many Israelis want a ceasefire deal to get the hostages back instead.
- International Opposition: Many countries allied with Israel are against this idea. They want the war to end and are worried about the severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
- Military Doubts: Even some of Israel’s own military and security experts think this plan might not work. One former intelligence chief, Ami Ayalon, said that while Hamas’s military power is destroyed, its ideas are getting stronger. He believes a better future needs to be offered to defeat Hamas’s ideology.
What’s the Situation in Gaza?
The Israeli military says it already controls about 75% of Gaza. However, this new plan would mean taking over the whole area, including places where over two million Palestinians are living. Most of Gaza’s population has been forced to move, and many are now facing hunger. It’s not clear how this new plan would affect the civilians and aid groups working there.
The Bigger Picture
This plan comes at a time when other countries are trying to find a long-term solution to the conflict, known as the two-state solution. This idea is about creating an independent Palestinian state alongside Israel. Some Palestinian officials have spoken out against Netanyahu’s plan, saying it goes against a peaceful solution and that some Israeli ministers want to build new settlements in Gaza. In the past, Israel removed its settlements from Gaza in 2005.
What Happens Next?
Netanyahu is expected to meet with his key ministers and military leaders to talk about the next steps. Media reports suggest they might discuss plans to surround some central areas in Gaza and carry out more attacks. Many experts are unsure if this plan will work and believe it is a very big risk for Netanyahu to take. Some commentators even think Netanyahu’s main goal might be to just keep the war going.