Israel’s Security Cabinet has approved a plan to expand its war in Gaza, authorizing the military to take full control of Gaza City—one of the last parts of the enclave not yet under total Israeli occupation. The decision, finalized early Friday, marks a significant escalation in a war that has already killed over 61,000 Palestinians, including thousands of children, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry.
Prime Minister Netanyahu’s office framed the move as part of a broader goal to “disarm Hamas and establish Israeli security control.” Yet, the U.N. warns nearly 90% of Gaza is already off-limits to civilians or under military lockdown. Gaza City remains home to vital hospitals, Christian places of refuge, and tens of thousands of displaced civilians.
Global outrage followed. British PM Keir Starmer called the plan “wrong.” Australia, too, warned of further humanitarian catastrophe. The U.N. demanded Israel halt the action immediately, citing potential violations of international law.
Meanwhile, families of Israeli hostages pleaded for a ceasefire. Netanyahu’s critics, including opposition leader Yair Lapid, labeled the strategy a “disaster” with no exit plan or vision for post-war Gaza.
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Despite protests in Tel Aviv and global pressure, Netanyahu seems unmoved. His far-right allies are even advocating for Palestinian expulsion and Israeli resettlement—red lines for most of the international community.
