Israel's Security Cabinet has approved a controversial military plan to "take control" of Gaza City and surrounding areas, triggering swift international condemnation and raising alarms about worsening humanitarian conditions. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated the operation aims to "free Gaza from Hamas" while establishing a "peaceful civilian administration" – explicitly excluding both Hamas and the Palestinian Authority.
Netanyahu: "Free Gaza from Hamas"
In a Friday social media post, Netanyahu emphasized Israel does not seek occupation but rather "demilitarization" of Gaza. The plan reportedly involves displacing Palestinian civilians from Gaza City to central camps by October 7, according to Axios reporter Barak Ravid, who cited an unnamed Israeli official. A siege and ground offensive would target remaining Hamas militants.
UN Chief Condemns "Dangerous Escalation"
United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called the move a threat to regional stability, reiterating Gaza must remain part of a future Palestinian state. The UN Security Council will hold emergency talks Saturday, with human rights officials warning of catastrophic civilian impacts.
Global Reactions Mount
The proposal has drawn criticism from multiple governments and humanitarian organizations. Analysts warn the operation could derail fragile peace negotiations and exacerbate shortages of essential supplies in Gaza, where over 2 million residents already face severe economic hardship.
