Israel Approves Plan to Take Over Gaza City, Sparking Controversy and Concern
Israel's Defense Minister, Israel Katz, has authorized a plan to seize control of Gaza City, a move that has sparked international outrage and concern. The operation, reported to be codenamed Gideon's Chariots B
, involves the mobilization of approximately 60,000 reservists and the planned displacement of around one million Palestinians.
Background and Context
According to multiple sources, the plan follows on from Gideon's Chariots
, an operation launched in May which resulted in Israel taking control of 75% of Gaza, displacing thousands and causing hundreds of civilian casualties. Reports indicate that the Israeli military has already begun actions on the outskirts of Gaza City, with troops reportedly moving towards the city's gates.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ordered the operation to be expedited, further intensifying the situation. This move comes as mediators push for a ceasefire in the nearly two-year war in Gaza, awaiting an official Israeli response to their latest proposal.
Key Developments and Details
The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has warned against Israel's plan, stating that it could result in the forced displacement of Palestinians in the north of the Strip. The Israeli military, however, has affirmed that necessary reserve force orders will be sent out, with plans to move residents from Gaza City to the south.
The Israeli military is expected to occupy Gaza City, the largest city in the Palestinian enclave, seen as a stronghold of Hamas. The operation is expected to change the landscape of Gaza City significantly, according to Defense Minister Katz.
Implications and Reactions
The international community has expressed serious concerns about the operation. The United Nations has strongly opposed the move, with many fearing the repercussions of such a large-scale operation on the local population. The UK has also condemned the approval of plans for a new West Bank settlement.
Domestically, the plan has sparked outrage, with critics calling it a stab in the hearts
. There has also been mounting pressure on Hamas, with the looming operation causing many families to consider uprooting themselves due to fear.
Conclusion and Current Status
As of now, troops have reportedly reached the city’s outskirts, and more reservists are being asked to report for duty to cover for other soldiers who will be involved in going into Gaza City. The timeline for the complete takeover of Gaza City remains unclear, but reports indicate that the Israeli army is set to intensify its operations.
The situation remains fluid, with international calls for a ceasefire growing more urgent. However, Israel's plan to invade Gaza City continues to move forward, bringing with it a host of humanitarian and geopolitical concerns.