Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's upcoming proposal for the full reoccupation of Gaza has sparked significant controversy, with military chiefs reportedly opposing the plan amid ongoing tensions. In statements to the press, a high-ranking official declared, "The die has been cast. We're going for the full conquest of the Gaza Strip – and defeating Hamas." This comes at a time when families of hostages, who believe about 20 of the 50 individuals are alive in Gaza, fear for their loved ones' safety.
Contrary to Netanyahu's ambitions, public sentiment appears to lean towards a ceasefire, with recent polls indicating that approximately 75% of Israelis support such a resolution. Additionally, hundreds of retired Israeli security officials have urged former US President Donald Trump to press Netanyahu to end the conflict, with ex-intelligence head Ami Ayalon emphasizing the futility of further military action against Hamas.
Recent reports suggest that indirect ceasefire talks with Hamas have collapsed, illustrated by the release of videos showing two Israeli captives in deteriorating health. These developments have prompted speculation that Netanyahu’s reoccupation proposal may serve as a strategic pressure tactic aimed at Hamas.
While Israel claims operational control over 75% of Gaza, full reoccupation would entail military action in densely populated areas, raising concerns for civilians amid an ongoing humanitarian crisis. Currently, around 90% of Gaza’s 2.1 million residents have been displaced and are contending with dire living conditions, facing starvation as aid distribution is hindered.
The proposed occupation plan has been met with denunciation from Palestinian officials, who insist it requires international intervention. Moreover, there are concerns surrounding far-right Israeli ministers advocating for the annexation of Gaza and the establishment of Jewish settlements.
This move comes on the backdrop of an international shift towards revitalizing the two-state solution, which envisions an independent Palestinian state alongside Israel. Key international players, including the UK and Canada, have recently voiced plans to conditionally recognize a Palestinian state, further complicating the political landscape.
As Netanyahu prepares to convene his security cabinet, analysts express skepticism regarding the practical implications of the reoccupation strategy. Writing in Yedioth Ahronoth, Nahum Barnea noted that "Netanyahu has never taken a gamble on this scale before," underscoring the challenges he may face in fulfilling his war objectives that have persisted for over two decades.
