Overview

• The Security Cabinet approved a phased ground operation to seize Gaza City under five guiding principles.
• The plan directs forces to disarm Hamas, free about 50 remaining hostages, demilitarize Gaza, secure an Israeli perimeter, and establish a transitional Arab-led civil administration.
• Prime Minister Netanyahu emphasized that Israel will not annex Gaza and intends to hand over civilian governance once security goals are achieved.
• Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir formally objected to the occupation plan, warning it could endanger surviving hostages and overstretch the Israel Defense Forces.
• The United Nations has warned that a full occupation could have catastrophic consequences for Gaza’s strained civilian population facing acute shortages.