Israel’s Security Cabinet will convene Tuesday to discuss a potential full military occupation of the Gaza Strip, marking what could be a pivotal escalation in the country’s nearly two-year war against Hamas, according to multiple Israeli media outlets.
The deliberations follow the collapse of mediated ceasefire talks, ongoing hostage negotiations, and growing frustration within Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government over a lack of progress toward defeating Hamas or returning hostages.
Netanyahu’s Office: “The Decision Has Been Made”
Amit Segal, senior commentator for Channel 12, Israel’s top-rated news network, cited a source in Netanyahu’s office who confirmed:
“The decision has been made… we are going to occupy the Gaza Strip.”
The source added that Hamas will not release hostages without Israel forcing total surrender, warning:
“If we do not operate now, the hostages will die of starvation, and Gaza will stay under Hamas’ control.”
Segal’s report stated that Israel has reached the end of its diplomatic rope:
“Israel for months was at a crossroad… not achieving victory or the hostages. The mandate for a deal was broad, but we did not get agreement — so we will go for occupation.”
Ceasefire Collapse and Grim Hostage Footage
The shift comes after Hamas released new propaganda videos showing emaciated Israeli hostages, including Evyatar David, who was forced to dig his own grave on camera. The images shocked Israeli citizens and reignited public demands for decisive military action.
The war began after Hamas’ October 7, 2023 terror attack, which killed more than 1,200 Israelis and saw hundreds taken hostage, many of whom are still being held in undisclosed tunnels across Gaza.
International Pressure vs. Domestic Resolve
Despite calls from President Trump’s Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, to pursue a ceasefire, and increasing global criticism of Israel’s operations in Gaza, Netanyahu’s coalition government is facing mounting pressure to act — particularly from the Israeli right.
Both have advocated for a full re-occupation of Gaza, including the rebuilding of Jewish communities that were dismantled as part of the 2005 disengagement plan.
IDF Cautioning Against Full Occupation
While some civilian leaders support bold moves, Israel Defense Forces (IDF) officials have reportedly advised against a full-scale occupation, citing long-term risks, logistical challenges, and operational alternatives.
Military leaders are expected to present those alternative strategies at Tuesday’s meeting, according to Israeli media.
Humanitarian Controversy and Misinformation
International critics continue to accuse Israel of fueling a humanitarian crisis, particularly after viral images of malnourished children circulated online — though follow-up investigations revealed that some of the children suffered from pre-existing medical conditions unrelated to Israeli policy.
Despite this, the media narrative continues to focus on famine, while largely ignoring Hamas’ role in hoarding aid and using human shields.
