Israel's security cabinet has approved a plan to expand the war in Gaza by taking control of Gaza City, despite widespread public opposition and military concerns. The city, home to over 650,000 residents in a densely populated area, faces an expected evacuation process of around two months. Prime Minister Netanyahu's intention to take full control has been met with military resistance, advocating for a strategy that avoids full occupation. The approved plan emphasizes ongoing Israeli security control as part of any resolution to the conflict, highlighting deep divisions within Israel regarding the war strategy.
"Where does he want to push us? Gaza is tiny," said Adam Ahmed Salem, a 35-year-old father of three, who returned to Gaza City after being displaced in the south earlier in the war. "Life like this ... it's just too hard."
Netanyahu stated his intent to take control of all of Gaza, a long-standing demand from far-right coalition members, suggesting that reestablishing Israeli settlements is crucial for defeating Hamas.
The IDF opposed the full occupation plan, arguing it would endanger hostages and strain military resources, instead proposing to strike and besiege Gaza City without holding it.
The plan approved by Israel's security cabinet supports "Israeli security control over the Gaza Strip" as a condition of concluding the war, stopping short of full-scale occupation.
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