Israeli Plan for Gradual Occupation of Gaza Draws Global Criticism
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced plans for a gradual takeover of the remaining Hamas strongholds in Gaza, in a move that has drawn global criticism and warnings from United Nations officials of potential calamity. The plan, which Netanyahu asserts is necessary to finish the job
against Hamas, has sparked concerns about further exacerbating the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Background and Context
The Israeli government's strategy, which has been referred to as the 'five-finger plan,' was originally conceived in the 1970s and involves dividing the territory with settlements and secure corridors. Netanyahu has stated that the aim is not to occupy Gaza permanently, but to free Gaza
by rooting out Hamas and stabilizing the region before handing leadership off to friendly Arab forces opposed to Hamas.
The Israeli prime minister’s office noted that the two leaders discussed Israel's plans, and Netanyahu thanked President Donald Trump for America's steadfast support.
Key Developments
The plan involves enabling the civilian population to safely leave combat areas for designated safe zones, where they will be provided with food, water, and medical care. Despite this, numerous organizations in Gaza and international bodies such as the UN have voiced strong concerns about the potential humanitarian impact of this strategy.
Israel's Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, a hard-line member of the far-right, has also criticized the plan for its gradual approach, arguing that Israel needs to move more decisively and quickly to defeat Hamas.
Global Reactions and Implications
The UN has warned of a potential calamity
in the wake of the Israeli plan, while various countries, including Uruguay, have condemned the move as a serious breach of international law.
The Gaza Municipality and various other organizations have pleaded for urgent international action to halt the war in Gaza.
There has also been criticism of the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), a US- and Israeli-backed organization, which has been accused by UN human rights experts of exploiting humanitarian relief for covert military and geopolitical agendas.
Conclusion
As Israel moves forward with its plan, the situation in Gaza remains dire. According to the Palestinian Health Ministry, there have been at least 193 deaths from malnutrition and hunger since the start of the Israeli blockade in October 2023, including 96 children and infants. With Netanyahu under increasing pressure both domestically and internationally, the future of his coalition government and the fate of Gaza hangs in the balance.