JERUSALEM/CAIRO, Aug 5 – The Israeli cabinet is expected to discuss and possibly authorize a complete military takeover of Gaza on Tuesday, a move that would mark a significant escalation in the ongoing war with Hamas and shift a decades-old policy. The potential decision comes amid rising global criticism over the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza and the collapse of negotiations aimed at halting the 22-month-long conflict.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is reportedly in favor of expanding the military operation to seize full control of Gaza, according to Israeli Channel 12. The discussions are taking place in the context of a failed truce effort, which aimed to establish a temporary ceasefire and facilitate the release of hostages. With talks now stalled, Israeli officials are exploring more aggressive alternatives, including a complete military offensive.
A senior Israeli official, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed that more forceful measures are on the table following the breakdown of indirect negotiations. If executed, a full takeover would overturn Israel’s 2005 disengagement policy, which involved pulling troops and settlers out of Gaza while retaining control over its borders. That decision has since been criticized by many right-wing factions, who argue it enabled Hamas to entrench itself in the territory.
Humanitarian Crisis Deepens as War Drags On
Inside Gaza, conditions have continued to deteriorate at an alarming rate. The war, which began after Hamas launched a deadly attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, has caused massive destruction across the densely populated enclave. The assault resulted in over 1,200 deaths and approximately 250 hostages being taken, according to Israeli figures.
In response, Israel launched a widespread military campaign that has now lasted nearly two years. More than 60,000 Palestinians have been killed, according to health authorities in Gaza, and nearly all of the enclave’s over 2 million residents have been displaced. The destruction of infrastructure and blockade of essential supplies has left the population facing severe food shortages, prompting international concern over what has been described as a growing famine.
Reports from inside Gaza on Tuesday indicated continued bloodshed. At least 13 Palestinians were reportedly killed by Israeli strikes and gunfire, including five people in a tent in Khan Younis and three individuals seeking aid near Rafah in the southern part of the strip. The toll underscores the human cost of the war as military operations push further into civilian areas.
Israeli tanks advanced into central Gaza earlier in the day, though it remains unclear whether this was a limited maneuver or the beginning of a larger ground offensive. With Israel having already gained control over four-fifths of the territory through various incursions and evacuation orders, Palestinians fear that any new push could leave them with nowhere to flee.
“If the tanks push forward, where do we go—into the sea?” said Abu Jehad, a wood merchant from Gaza, expressing despair over the worsening situation. “This will be a death sentence for all of us.”
Debate Over Long-Term Occupation or Tactical Strike
While Netanyahu’s coalition, widely regarded as one of the most right-wing in Israel’s history, includes voices pushing for full annexation of both Gaza and the West Bank, there remains internal disagreement about the future course. Military leaders have long warned against a full occupation of Gaza, citing concerns over governance and manpower shortages. The protracted war has already taken a toll on Israeli forces, with reservists frequently being called up, leading to operational fatigue and strain.
It remains uncertain whether the proposed full takeover would lead to an extended military occupation or a short-term effort focused on eliminating Hamas leadership and rescuing remaining hostages. Defense officials are reportedly preparing to present a range of options, including limited operations in areas of Gaza where the Israeli military has not yet conducted ground campaigns.
Some Palestinian officials involved in past ceasefire discussions believe the renewed threats may be aimed more at gaining leverage than initiating a full invasion. “This kind of rhetoric only complicates negotiations further,” said one official, speaking anonymously. “The resistance insists that nothing less than a total end to the war and the complete withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza will be acceptable.”
Despite the escalating rhetoric, there are still signs of possible openings for humanitarian relief. Israeli officials have signaled a willingness to permit goods into Gaza, and according to a merchant from the area, some trucks have already arrived carrying items like biscuits and chocolates. There is hope that this may be followed by the arrival of more critical supplies, including milk, fresh produce, rice, sugar, and meat. These incoming supplies may help ease shortages and reduce the soaring prices in local markets.
Meanwhile, efforts by foreign diplomats, including a top U.S. envoy, continue in the background to work out a plan to end hostilities. Discussions have revolved around a proposed 60-day ceasefire that would allow for the exchange of hostages and prisoners and the delivery of humanitarian aid. However, with no deal reached in the most recent talks held in Doha, the likelihood of a diplomatic breakthrough remains uncertain.