Israel Approves “Full Occupation” Plan for Gaza Despite Military Concerns

Israel’s security cabinet has approved a controversial “full occupation” plan for the Gaza Strip, a move that could displace over one million Palestinians amid the ongoing conflict since October 7. The decision came despite warnings from senior military officials that the operation could endanger the lives of hostages still held by Hamas.

Following a tense, nearly 10-hour meeting, the Prime Minister’s Office announced the plan, which sets out five key conditions for ending the occupation:

1. Complete disarmament of Hamas

2. Return of all hostages, including around 50 believed to be alive

3. Total demilitarization of the Gaza Strip

4. Full Israeli control over the entire Gaza territory

5. Replacement of Hamas and the Palestinian Authority with an alternative civilian administration

Cabinet Divisions Over Military Risks
According to leaks from Israeli media, the meeting saw sharp disputes between IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir and ministers close to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Zamir reportedly argued that a full-scale occupation could put hostages in greater danger, drawing strong objections from hardline ministers who insisted on moving forward.

Despite the internal rift, the cabinet ultimately endorsed the plan, raising fears among humanitarian organizations that Gaza’s already dire humanitarian crisis could worsen significantly.