Israel to Expand Gaza War with Plan to Capture Gaza City, Forcing Mass Evacuations

Israel’s security cabinet has voted to expand its military campaign in Gaza, approving a plan to capture Gaza City in an effort to destroy Hamas and free remaining hostages. The five-month plan, announced by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office, includes disarming Hamas, establishing Israeli security control over Gaza, and eventually creating a civilian administration unaffiliated with Hamas or the Palestinian Authority.

The first stage of the plan would require evacuating up to a million Palestinians from Gaza City to the south, paired with an increase in humanitarian aid distribution — though no aid sites would be placed inside Gaza City, effectively forcing residents to leave. The deadline for this phase is October 7, marking two years since the Hamas-led attack on Israel.

The move comes amid domestic protests, opposition from hostage families, and warnings from Israeli military officials who fear the expanded operation could endanger hostages and worsen Gaza’s humanitarian crisis. International backlash has also been swift, with leaders from the UK, France, Ireland, Canada, and several Middle Eastern nations condemning the plan. The United Nations has warned the offensive could result in “massive forced displacement” and “atrocity crimes.”

Netanyahu insists Israel does not plan a full occupation, saying the goal is to “free Gaza from Hamas” and establish a peaceful, demilitarized administration. However, the plan envisions eventual full Israeli security control, moving closer to an occupation not seen since Israel’s 2005 withdrawal.

The Gaza war has already killed tens of thousands, displaced nearly the entire population, and caused severe hunger as Israel restricts aid. Critics warn the new offensive risks escalating the crisis and prolonging instability in the region.

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