Israel Approves New Plan to Control Gaza City—Here’s What It Means

Early Friday morning in Jerusalem, following hours of intense discussions, Israel’s security cabinet approved Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s new plan to take control of Gaza City.

The plan, backed by a majority of cabinet ministers, outlines five key principles Netanyahu believes are essential to end the ongoing war with Hamas and ensure long-term security.

Here’s What the Plan Includes:

Disarm Hamas completely
The Israeli government wants to make sure Hamas no longer has any weapons or military capability.

Return of all hostages
This includes both the living and the deceased being held by Hamas.

Demilitarization of Gaza
The goal is to remove all heavy weapons and prevent future military buildup in the Gaza Strip.

Israeli security control over Gaza
Israel intends to maintain security oversight to prevent future threats from the territory.

A new civilian leadership (not Hamas or the Palestinian Authority)
The plan calls for an alternative government to lead Gaza—one that is neither tied to Hamas nor the current Palestinian Authority.

Why This Plan?

Netanyahu’s office says most cabinet members rejected alternative proposals, arguing that they wouldn’t defeat Hamas or ensure the return of hostages.

The new strategy also includes instructions for the IDF (Israeli Defense Forces) to get ready to take over Gaza City, while also continuing to provide humanitarian aid to civilians outside of conflict zones.

What Happens Next?

This marks a significant shift in Israel’s approach to the conflict. While details on how and when the Gaza City operation will unfold are still emerging, this decision signals a long-term strategic move to reshape the future of Gaza.

The international community is watching closely, with many raising concerns about the humanitarian impact and the uncertain political future of the region.