Occupied Jerusalem, Aug 8 (Alliance News): Israel’s security cabinet has approved a plan to take over Gaza City, sparking fears of more violence and putting pressure on ongoing hostage negotiations.
Arab media reported that the Israeli army early Thursday ordered residents in northern Gaza to leave their homes, raising concerns about a wider military push.
Hamas quickly responded, saying it would never accept an Israeli occupation of Gaza.
The decision comes nearly two years into Israel’s war in Gaza, which began after Hamas attacked southern Israel on October 7, 2023.
Speaking to Fox News before the meeting, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel’s aim was to destroy Hamas, not permanently control Gaza.
“We want to hand it over to Arab forces who will govern it properly without threatening us and give the people of Gaza a good life,” he said.
But Israel’s military chief, Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir, warned that occupying the city could put the lives of Israeli hostages in danger and stretch army resources.
Families of the hostages also protested outside the cabinet meeting in Jerusalem, saying the plan could harm their loved ones.
Many residents fled Gaza City in the early days of the war, though some returned during a short ceasefire.
Expanding the offensive could put thousands of civilians and around 20 Israeli hostages at risk, and further strain Israel’s relations abroad.
Israel already controls most of Gaza, and officials have hinted at plans to take the remaining areas still under Hamas influence.
The war has killed thousands and displaced the vast majority of the territory’s population.
