Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office announced early Friday that the security cabinet had approved a military plan to take control of Gaza City, as well as adopt five key principles for ending the war against Hamas.
The late-night decision followed several hours of deliberations in Jerusalem among Israel’s top security and government officials. The plan, backed by a majority of the cabinet, is seen as a strategic pivot in Israel’s ongoing military campaign.
The Five Principles for Ending the War
The official statement outlined the following five principles that will guide Israel’s final phase of the war:
- Disarmament of Hamas
The complete removal of Hamas’s military infrastructure and weapons capabilities within the Gaza Strip. - Return of All Hostages
Israel seeks the return of all abducted citizens—both alive and deceased—held by Hamas and other armed groups. - Demilitarisation of the Gaza Strip
A long-term strategy to eliminate any military threat from Gaza through sustained Israeli security operations. - Israeli Security Control
Post-war, Israel intends to retain security control over the Gaza Strip to prevent the resurgence of hostile actors. - Alternative Civilian Governance
The creation of a non-Hamas, non-Palestinian Authority civilian administration to govern the Gaza Strip in the aftermath of the conflict.
Netanyahu’s office emphasized that the adopted plan was the only realistic route to defeating Hamas and securing the return of Israeli hostages. “An absolute majority of cabinet ministers believed that the alternative plan presented to the cabinet would not achieve the defeat of Hamas or the return of the abductees,” the statement read.
Humanitarian Aid Commitment
Despite preparing for a major operation to retake Gaza City, the Israeli government stated it would continue to provide humanitarian aid to civilians located outside of active combat zones. This includes food, water, and medical assistance coordinated with international partners.
Strategic Significance of Gaza City
Gaza City, the largest urban center in the Gaza Strip, has long been considered a stronghold for Hamas’s political and military leadership. Its capture would mark a significant milestone in Israel’s campaign, shifting momentum in favor of Israeli forces.
International Response and Concerns
The international community remains divided over Israel’s plans. While some Western allies have supported Israel’s right to self-defense and hostage recovery, others warn that a long-term Israeli presence in Gaza could fuel further regional instability.
Human rights organizations have also expressed concern over the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip and the potential displacement of civilians during military operations.
Looking Ahead
With the latest developments, Israel is preparing for one of its most critical military operations since the beginning of the war, while laying the groundwork for a post-conflict governance model that excludes both Hamas and the Palestinian Authority.
The move signals that Israel’s goal is not just military victory, but also a lasting transformation of Gaza’s political and security landscape.
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