Israel Approves Plan To Reoccupy Gaza Strip Indefinitely

On Monday, Israel’s cabinet approved a plan to reoccupy the Gaza Strip for an indefinite period, a move expected to begin after President Donald Trump’s upcoming visit to the region. The decision marks a major shift away from ceasefire negotiations and aims to pressure Hamas to release hostages and dismantle its military infrastructure.

The plan includes evacuating civilians from northern Gaza to the south and using private companies to distribute aid, bypassing Hamas. A senior Israeli official said the military will act “forcefully” to destroy Hamas’s capabilities and separate it from the civilian population.

At a Knesset committee hearing Monday, Einav Zangauker, whose son is a hostage, called on soldiers “not to report for reserve duty for moral and ethical reasons.” Opposition leader Yair Lapid questioned the mobilization of tens of thousands of troops without a clear objective.

The European Union expressed concern over the expanded operation, warning of more civilian casualties. Israeli officials said the plan is on hold until Trump concludes his visit, leaving a short window for Hamas to agree to a deal.

The White House reiterated its demand for the immediate release of hostages and an end to Hamas’s control of Gaza. “Hamas bears sole responsibility for the resumption of hostilities,” said National Security Council spokesperson Brian Hughes. The plan has heightened tensions in the region and cast further doubt on the possibility of a near-term ceasefire.

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Article by Evelyn Qiu