Israel’s Security Cabinet has approved a plan to occupy the Gaza Strip, a move that has been met with surprising support from the United States. Despite internal dissent within Israel, including concerns raised by the military leadership, the US, under the leadership of Donald Trump, has chosen to abstain from interfering with this decision. This shift in approach is notable given Trump’s prior efforts to achieve a ceasefire and his expression of concern over the humanitarian situation.
The occupation plan entails taking control of major sections of central Gaza, including Gaza City, and displacing roughly one million Palestinians. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) will operate in regions where hostages are believed to be held, potentially increasing the danger to their lives.
According to reports, a video released by Hamas featuring an Israeli hostage has influenced Trump’s changed perspective. Netanyahu and his allies assert that only through military pressure can they compel Hamas to agree to terms acceptable to Israel. However, General Eyal Zamir, the Israeli Chief of Staff, has cautioned that this operation might put the hostages at risk and commit Israel to direct military rule over Gaza, requiring them to take responsibility for the wellbeing of two million Palestinians.