A controversial proposal by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for a full military occupation of the Gaza Strip has been met with significant resistance, leading to the postponement of a key security cabinet meeting originally scheduled for Tuesday.
The plan, which would involve expanding the Israeli Defence Forces’ (IDF) control over the entire territory after 22 months of genocide, has exposed deep rifts within the Israeli government and drawn sharp criticism from the international community.
According to Israeli media reports, Netanyahu intended to seek approval for a “full conquest of the Gaza Strip” to defeat Hamas. An unnamed senior official was quoted as saying, “The die has been cast,” and suggested that any military leaders who oppose the plan, including the chief of staff, “should resign.”
However, the proposal has been heavily criticised by both current and former defence officials who warn of severe consequences. Military leaders reportedly cautioned that such an operation would lead to “heavy IDF casualties,” with estimates of “dozens” of soldiers killed and many more wounded.
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Growing dissent and international pressure
The plan for a full occupation has not only faced internal opposition but has also intensified international condemnation of Israel’s military campaign. A senior UN official, Miroslav Jenča, warned the UN Security Council of “catastrophic consequences” for millions of displaced Palestinians and reiterated that “there is no military solution to the conflict.”
Allies have also voiced their disapproval. Hundreds of retired Israeli security officials, including former heads of intelligence, sent a letter to US President Donald Trump urging him to pressure Netanyahu to end the war.
The political and humanitarian ramifications are significant. A full-scale occupation would involve moving into densely populated areas where over two million Palestinians, 90% of whom are already displaced, are living in dire conditions. This has led to fears of a worsening humanitarian crisis, with UN officials and aid groups already reporting widespread starvation.
The move comes as ceasefire negotiations with Hamas have stalled and after the release of distressing videos showing emaciated Israeli hostages, which has intensified public pressure in Israel. While some speculate the occupation threat is a tactic to pressure Hamas, others, like commentator Nahum Barnea, believe Netanyahu’s primary goal is simply “to prolong the war.”
Image via Chatham House.
