Israel's Security Cabinet Convenes to Discuss Full Occupation of Gaza Strip

Strategic Insights -

The Israeli prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, is set to convene a security cabinet on Thursday evening to discuss the full occupation of the Gaza Strip, which aid agencies have warned would lead to further mass displacement and countless more Palestinian deaths. The families of the roughly 20 remaining living hostages have called for Israelis to protest against the government, fearing a decision that would endanger the lives of their loved ones.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Israeli government is considering a two-phase operation aimed at seizing control of Gaza City, with plans to evacuate about a million residents, half of Gaza's population, in what officials describe as a temporary measure.
  • The operation would mean sending ground troops into the remaining 25% of the territory where most of its 2 million people have sought refuge, with the goal of establishing civilian infrastructure in central Gaza.
  • The chief of staff, Lt Gen Eyal Zamir, has warned that occupying Gaza would plunge Israel into a "black hole" of prolonged insurgency, humanitarian responsibility, and heightened risk to hostages.
  • The operation is expected to involve up to five IDF divisions and last for four to five months, with the aim of pressuring Hamas back into negotiations and possibly aligning with a US-led peace framework.
  • Israeli officials say the campaign aims to pressure Hamas into negotiations, but many remain sceptical, with one unnamed security official warning that the operation could lead to a "Vietnam model" situation.
  • Netanyahu is under intense international pressure to reach a ceasefire agreement, but also faces internal pressure from within his coalition to continue the war.

Statistics:

  • 49 remaining hostages in Gaza, of which 27 have been declared dead by the army.
  • 251 people kidnapped on 7 October by Hamas and its allies.
  • 200 Palestinians have died of starvation in Gaza since the war began.
  • More than 61,000 Palestinians have been killed by Israel's assault on Gaza.

Sources:

  • Reuters
  • AFP
  • Associated Press
  • Israel's Channel 12
  • Local health officials in Gaza
  • Gaza's health ministry