Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reportedly signaled his intent to fully occupy the Gaza Strip, sparking sharp opposition from Israel’s military leadership and internal cabinet divisions.
According to Hebrew media, Netanyahu told ministers he would seek cabinet backing for the plan, which would extend IDF control beyond the current 75% of Gaza. A senior official reportedly quoted him saying, “The die is cast.”
IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir opposes the move, citing risks to hostages and the years it would take to dismantle Hamas infrastructure. Zamir even canceled a planned U.S. visit due to the war’s escalation.
The proposal has split the cabinet: hardline ministers like Itamar Ben Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich support full occupation, while others, including Mossad chief David Barnea and National Security Adviser Tzachi Hanegbi, favor continued ceasefire negotiations.
Meanwhile, U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff informed families of hostages that President Trump now supports a “comprehensive deal” for a full hostage release and war’s end—shifting away from partial agreements.
The war, triggered by Hamas’ October 7, 2023 massacre, has resulted in over 60,000 deaths in Gaza (according to Hamas-run sources), and over 1,200 Israeli deaths. Israel estimates it has killed 20,000 Hamas fighters, but humanitarian concerns over further escalation remain high.
