Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that the new offensive in the Gaza Strip will be an intensive military operation aimed at defeating Hamas.
“The population will be relocated for their protection,” Netanyahu said in a video posted on the X network.
The Israeli prime minister added that Israeli soldiers will not enter Gaza, launch raids and then withdraw.
“The intention is the opposite of that,” Netanyahu emphasized.
He did not explain in detail how much of the enclave’s territory would be occupied.
The Israeli security cabinet has approved plans by the government of Benjamin Netanyahu to completely seize Gaza and establish Israeli military control over the territory. This information was confirmed on Monday morning by a senior official, who stressed that the cabinet unanimously approved the expansion of the military operation in Gaza.
According to the sources, the operation will be carried out after US President Donald Trump’s visit to the region, which is expected next week. Until then, efforts to reach a ceasefire and resolve the hostage issue with Hamas will continue. The plan, presented by the Chief of Staff of the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF), Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir, involves “seizing Gaza and keeping it under control.” The sources claim that Israeli forces will take control of the territory, move the civilian population south, attack Hamas and prevent the terrorist group from taking control of humanitarian aid.
According to the officials, the plan will be implemented in stages, starting with smaller areas in Gaza and then expanding to other parts.
During the meeting, the Israeli government also approved the entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza and its distribution through civilian organizations. However, right-wing Israeli minister Itamar Ben-Gvir expressed his opposition to this proposal. He stated: “I see no reason why we should give them humanitarian aid. They have enough food. We should destroy Hamas’ food stores.”
