Complete Gaza takeover soon? Israel Cabinet mulls big military move

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Israel’s cabinet could soon give a go-ahead for a complete military takeover of the Gaza Strip for the first time in nearly two decades, Reuters has reported citing Israeli media. The takeover talks come amid intensifying global pressure for a ceasefire to alleviate worsening humanitarian conditions in the region.

The Big Picture

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is reportedly leaning towards approving an expanded offensive that would place the entire Gaza Strip under military control, Israeli Channel 12 said on Monday. A final decision could be taken as early as Tuesday.

The move follows the collapse of indirect ceasefire talks with Hamas and comes amid growing international criticism over civilian casualties and humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza.

What it Means

• A full military takeover would reverse Israel’s 2005 disengagement from Gaza, when settlers and troops were withdrawn but border control was retained.
• Such a step could trigger a sharp escalation in the conflict, already one of the deadliest in recent history, and would likely deepen Israel’s diplomatic isolation.
• It is unclear whether the proposed operation would result in long-term occupation of Gaza or just a short-term push to dismantle Hamas and recover hostages.
• The Israeli military is reportedly concerned about the implications of prolonged governance in Gaza, especially amid ongoing manpower strains and repeated reservist deployments.

“If the tanks pushed through, where would we go, into the sea? This will be like a death sentence to the entire population,” — Abu Jehad, Gaza wood merchant

“It will only complicate the negotiation further, at the end, the resistance factions will not accept less than an end to the war, and a full withdrawal from Gaza,” — Palestinian official close to ceasefire talks

Deep Dive

Military calculus: The Israeli military has cautioned against full occupation, citing the challenges of administering Gaza and sustaining long-term operations. However, defence officials are expected to present alternate plans for incursions into remaining parts of the territory.

Conflict toll: The war, sparked by Hamas' October 7, 2023 attack that killed over 1,200 Israelis and led to the abduction of around 250 hostages, has devastated Gaza. More than 60,000 Palestinians have been killed, according to local health authorities, with famine conditions reported across the strip.

Internal politics: Israel’s ruling coalition includes hardline factions that openly support annexation of Gaza and the West Bank. These groups have long blamed the 2005 disengagement for Hamas' rise to power in Gaza.

International fallout: Amid the deepening crisis, several European nations have signaled plans to recognise a Palestinian state if a ceasefire is not achieved soon. US envoy Steve Witkoff has been working on a post-war plan with Israeli authorities, even as officials float more aggressive military options.

Aid and access: While ceasefire talks in Doha have failed, some trucks carrying consumer goods like chocolates and biscuits have entered Gaza. Essential items such as milk, meat, rice, and sugar may follow, offering slight relief from soaring prices.