On August 7, 2025, Israel's Security Cabinet approved a plan for the military occupation of Gaza City, a move spearheaded by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The objective of this escalation is for the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to establish total control over Gaza City, the largest urban center in the Gaza Strip. The stated aim of the operation is to provide humanitarian assistance to civilians in areas not directly involved in combat.
The approved strategy is based on five core principles: the disarmament of Hamas, the return of all Israeli hostages, the comprehensive demilitarization of the Gaza Strip, Israel's security oversight of the territory, and the establishment of a new civilian administration independent of Hamas or the Palestinian Authority. Despite assurances of no intention for permanent control, the plan has generated significant global concern regarding the future governance of Gaza City and its profound humanitarian implications for its inhabitants. The decision was reportedly made despite reservations from IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir, who had cautioned about potential risks to hostages' lives and the considerable military resources required for such an undertaking.
The plan has faced strong international backlash. UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk urged an immediate halt to the plan, asserting that it contravenes the International Court of Justice's resolution calling for an end to the Israeli occupation and infringes upon the Palestinians' right to self-determination. Nations including the United Kingdom, Spain, Turkey, and Australia have voiced strong condemnation, expressing deep concern over the potential for conflict escalation and its severe humanitarian consequences.
International reactions have been swift and critical. Germany announced a halt to military equipment exports that could be used in Gaza, with Chancellor Friedrich Merz emphasizing that while Israel has the right to self-defense, the escalating actions make achieving peace and hostage release goals increasingly difficult. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the decision as "wrong" and urged reconsideration, stating it would not contribute to ending the conflict or securing hostage releases, but rather lead to further bloodshed. Spain's Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares condemned the plan as a move that would "only cause more destruction and suffering," emphasizing the urgent need for a ceasefire, unimpeded humanitarian aid, and the release of all hostages. Turkey's Foreign Ministry called for international pressure to prevent the plan's implementation, viewing the escalation as a new phase of "expansionist" policies. Australia's Foreign Minister Penny Wong urged Israel not to proceed, warning of a worsening humanitarian catastrophe and stating that permanent forced displacement violates international law.
The humanitarian situation in Gaza remains critical, with the population facing increasingly dire living conditions due to the protracted conflict and challenges in accessing essential aid. Reports indicate that famine thresholds for food consumption have been reached in most of the Gaza Strip, with Gaza City experiencing particularly severe conditions. As of early August 2025, casualty figures from the conflict have surpassed 61,000 fatalities and over 151,000 injuries, with a significant portion of the population facing starvation and acute malnutrition. The approved plan to occupy Gaza City, with an estimated one million residents, raises further concerns about civilian safety and the delivery of life-saving assistance in an already devastated urban environment.