Has the Israeli Defence Minister Reviewed Plans to Seize Gaza City?
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Synopsis
In a significant military development, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz has confirmed a strategy for capturing Gaza City, indicating the potential for an extensive ground offensive. This decision has sparked reactions from political leaders and local authorities amidst rising tensions.
Key Takeaways
- Israel Katz reviewed a military plan to seize Gaza City.
- The plan indicates preparations for an extensive ground operation.
- Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu supports the military occupation strategy.
- Local health authorities reported significant casualties in Gaza.
- Opposition leader Yair Lapid criticized the decision, warning of dire consequences.
Jerusalem, Aug 15 (NationPress) Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz has announced that he has assessed a military strategy aimed at taking control of Gaza City, indicating preparations for what could be one of the largest ground offensives in Gaza since the conflict erupted in October 2023.
Katz convened at military headquarters in Tel Aviv with Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir and other senior Commanders, who outlined the fundamental components of the operation to capture Gaza City and other territories where Israel has not yet secured complete dominance, as reported by the Xinhua news agency.
This strategy received approval from the security Cabinet earlier this week.
“Israel is resolute in its mission to defeat Hamas in Gaza, liberate all hostages, and bring an end to the conflict,” Katz stated in a release on his behalf.
“The IDF (Israel Defense Forces) is mobilizing all its resources and preparing vigorously to execute the Cabinet's directive. We will operate with unified strength until the objective is achieved,” he added.
Israel's security cabinet has sanctioned a proposal by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for the military occupation of Gaza City, situated in the northern part of the Palestinian enclave.
“The Israeli military will gear up to seize control of Gaza City while also providing humanitarian assistance to civilians outside the conflict areas,” Netanyahu's office stated in an announcement made early on Friday regarding the takeover strategy.
Netanyahu's remarks came after reports surfaced in Israeli media earlier this week indicating that the Israeli leader was poised to announce plans for a full occupation of the entire Gaza Strip.
Hamas responded, saying that Netanyahu's statements “reflect a blatant reversal of the negotiation process and clearly reveal his true motives behind abandoning the last ceasefire discussions, even as we were close to a final agreement.”
“His intentions to escalate aggression confirm without doubt that he aims to forsake his own prisoners, sacrificing them for personal gain and an extremist ideological agenda,” the group declared in a statement.
Israeli Opposition leader Yair Lapid described the decision to seize Gaza City as a “catastrophe that will result in further disasters.”
The plan is expected to “take months, claim the lives of hostages, result in numerous soldier fatalities, cost Israeli taxpayers tens of billions, and lead to a political downfall,” he posted on X.
“This is exactly what Hamas desired: to ensnare Israel in a mission without a clear objective, without a vision for the aftermath, resulting in a futile occupation,” he added.
As Israeli forces intensified their operations in Gaza, local health officials reported that at least 50 individuals lost their lives across the enclave within the last 24 hours, and 831 others were injured.
Since October 2023, authorities have reported that at least 61,776 people have died due to Israeli bombardments and gunfire.
Point of View
It is crucial to present an unbiased perspective on the ongoing situation. The recent announcement by Israel regarding the military occupation of Gaza City underscores the complexities of the conflict. While the intention to defeat Hamas and secure the safety of hostages is evident, the potential consequences of a prolonged military operation must also be considered. It is vital to approach this topic with sensitivity, recognizing the human cost involved for both Israelis and Palestinians.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the military plan reviewed by Israel Katz?
The military plan aims to seize control of Gaza City and defeat Hamas, while also addressing humanitarian needs for civilians.
How has the international community reacted to Israel's plans?
The international response has varied, with some leaders expressing concern over the humanitarian impact and others supporting Israel's right to defend itself.
What has been the casualty count in Gaza since October 2023?
Local authorities reported that at least 61,776 people have died due to Israeli strikes and gunfire since the conflict began.
