The Israeli prime minister has reportedly told his cabinet he will fully occupy the enclave, despite concerns it may endanger hostages held by Hamas

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has told ministers that he will seek cabinet backing for a plan to fully occupy Gaza, despite objections from the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), The Times of Israel reported on Monday.

Israel controlled Gaza for 38 years, from 1967 until 2005. After the IDF and Israeli settlers withdrew from the enclave, it was left to be governed by the Palestinian Authority, which also controlled parts of the occupied West Bank. Hamas took control of Gaza after it won elections there in 2006. Since then, no elections have been held.

Several ministers reportedly said Netanyahu referred to the term "occupation of the Strip" during private conversations, reflecting his vision for expanding military operations. It marks a significant shift in tone as the government prepares to discuss the future of the campaign.

"The die is cast - we are going for a full occupation of the Gaza Strip... There will be operations even in areas where hostages are being held. If the IDF chief of staff doesn't agree, he should resign," a senior official close to Netanyahu was quoted by Ynet as saying.

The IDF currently claims to hold approximately 75% of the territory. Under the new plan, the military would be expected to occupy the remaining area as well, bringing the entire enclave under Israeli control.

The Times of Israel claims the IDF is against the idea of taking all of Gaza under control. The military believes it could take years to dismantle all Hamas infrastructure. Additionally, this approach could put hostages at risk of execution if troops move too close to where they are being held.

The conflict between Hamas and Israel erupted in October 2023 with a surprise attack by Hamas in southern Israel, leaving about 1,200 dead and 250 taken hostage. Around 50 hostages have not yet been returned, with fewer than half believed to be still alive. Israel's counterattack has led to widespread destruction in Gaza, with the enclave's health authorities estimating at least 60,000 deaths.

(RT.com)