Netanyahu Supports Full Military Takeover of Gaza
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has supported a complete military takeover of Gaza for the first time in 20 years. According to the British news agency Reuters, Netanyahu is also set to meet with senior security officials for a new strategy in the 22-month-long war. Mediation efforts between Israel and Hamas have failed despite global pressure, which included calls to improve the hunger and horrific conditions spreading in Palestine and to move towards a ceasefire.
Rising Death Toll and Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza
On the other hand, the Gaza Ministry of Health reports that in the past 24 hours, eight more people have died from hunger or malnutrition, while 79 others have been killed in a recent shooting incident by Israel. An Israeli official told Reuters that Prime Minister Netanyahu is set to meet with Defense Minister Israel Katz and Army Chief Eyal Zameer over the weekend, and Minister of Strategic Affairs Ron Dermer, who is Netanyahu’s special advisor, will also be present.
Renewed Push for Israel Control Over Gaza
Israeli Channel 12 has reported, citing a source from the Prime Minister’s office, that Netanyahu leans towards achieving complete Israel control over Gaza. According to the report, the decision made in 2005 to withdraw settlers and the military from the borders of Gaza will be reversed. This raises renewed questions such as when did Israel gain control over Gaza, how long has Israel had control over Gaza, and does Israel have control over Gaza today in practical terms. Right-wing Israeli parties have continued to accuse Hamas of gaining power in the area, prompting some to ask why does Israel want control over Gaza, and what does Israel control over Gaza at this stage.
Water Resources and Infrastructure Under Scrutiny
Part of the ongoing debate also includes infrastructure and humanitarian issues, including Israel control over Gaza water — a point of contention highlighted by worldwide organizations concerned with worsening conditions.
Universal Reactions and Speculation Over Leaked Reports
Efforts were made to contact the Prime Minister’s Office to understand their position regarding Channel 12’s report; however, no response was received from there. A Palestinian official stated that this could be a tactic to pressure Hamas into making concessions, while on the other hand, the Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has urged the multinational community to take such reports seriously. The statement indicated that “other countries and the global community are urged to take such leaks seriously and to intervene to prevent such actions, whether the purpose of such leaks is to apply pressure, to test universal reactions, or if they are genuine.”
Maps and Strategic Planning Fuel Further Debate
A leaked image circulating online has also sparked renewed interest in the Israel control over Gaza map, with analysts speculating on future scenarios and redrawn borders.
