Israel Plans To Seize Gaza Under A New Plan, Officials Say

Israel has approved a plan to take control of the Gaza Strip and to remain in the Palestinian territory for an unspecified period, according to two Israeli officials. This move, if carried out, would significantly expand Israel’s presence in the region and is likely to face strong international opposition.

The new plan, which received approval by Israeli Cabinet ministers in an early morning vote, also involves relocating hundreds of thousands of Palestinians to the south of Gaza. This could result in their forced displacement, worsening an already severe humanitarian crisis.

Specifics of the plan have not been officially disclosed, and the exact timing and execution remain unclear. The approval came shortly after the Israeli military chief announced the mobilization of tens of thousands of reserve soldiers. This action may be part of Israel’s strategy to pressure Hamas into making concessions during ceasefire talks.

A defense official mentioned that the implementation of the new plan would not start until after U.S. President Donald Trump concludes his anticipated visit to the Middle East, leaving room for a potential ceasefire agreement in the meantime. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the military plans.

In related news on Monday, Israel conducted airstrikes targeting Houthi rebels in Hodeida, Yemen, following a missile launch by the rebels that hit Israel’s main airport. The strikes hit several locations, including the Hodeida port and a cement factory, according to the rebels.

Israel withdrew from Gaza in 2005 after a long occupation and later imposed a blockade alongside Egypt. Reoccupying the territory indefinitely would not only diminish prospects for Palestinian statehood but also pose challenges regarding governance and relations with the local population, especially amid considerations of adopting Trump’s proposal for Gaza.