Israel’s government has approved a controversial plan to seize full control of the Gaza Strip and maintain a long-term military presence, escalating its ongoing conflict with Hamas following the collapse of ceasefire negotiations in March.
The operation will expand Israel’s ongoing military campaign against Hamas, including the gradual occupation of Gaza, forced displacement of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians to the south, and a new framework for humanitarian aid distribution that bypasses U.N. and international agencies. Critics warn that the displacement of Palestinians and potential “voluntary emigration” initiatives may amount to war crimes.
Israel also plans to assume control of humanitarian aid logistics, with aid funneled through private contractors at designated military-controlled hubs, using facial recognition and text-based notification systems to manage distribution. The U.N. has rejected this approach, calling it an “attempt to weaponize humanitarian relief” that could leave the most vulnerable without supplies.
Despite strong international pressure for a resolution, Hamas has refused to accept any agreement that doesn’t include a full Israeli withdrawal and reconstruction of Gaza. Israel says the new plan aims to dismantle Hamas’ governing and military capabilities and to secure the release of 59 Israeli hostages still believed to be held in Gaza.
