By M10News International Desk | August 5, 2025
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reportedly resolved to pursue a complete military occupation of the Gaza Strip, in what could mark one of the most aggressive shifts in Israel’s war strategy since the conflict with Hamas reignited last year.
The development was first reported by Israeli outlet Ynet, which quoted a senior official close to the prime minister as saying, “The die is cast – we are going for the full occupation of the Gaza Strip.” The unnamed source also signalled that Netanyahu’s plans could override internal dissent, adding, “There will be operations even in areas where hostages are being held. If the chief of staff doesn’t agree, he should resign.”
This remark is widely seen as a direct challenge to Israel’s military leadership, hinting at possible friction within the upper echelons of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), as operational risks and ethical concerns continue to mount.
Cabinet to Decide in Coming Days
Sources suggest that Netanyahu’s security cabinet, which must approve the shift in military policy, is expected to meet in the coming days to finalise the next steps.
The move would mark a dramatic escalation from the current partial control Israel holds over the besieged enclave.
The Times of Israel reports that the IDF currently maintains a presence in approximately 75% of Gaza.
However, the new directive would aim to extend control over the remaining territory — including southern Gaza and parts of central zones that have so far resisted occupation or remain highly contested.
If implemented, the strategy would likely trigger intensified urban combat operations in densely populated areas where thousands of civilians remain trapped.
Hamas Dismisses Threats
In response to the media reports, Hamas issued a defiant statement, rejecting Israel’s intentions and dismissing the rhetoric as “repetitive” and “worthless.”
“These threats have no influence on our decisions,” the Palestinian militant group said, vowing to continue resistance efforts amid the renewed push.
Hamas has long operated underground command structures and urban tunnels throughout Gaza, which analysts say may complicate Israel’s attempts to secure full territorial control.
The presence of Israeli hostages in undisclosed locations is also expected to factor heavily into both military and political considerations.
International Ramifications Loom
The prospect of a full occupation is likely to heighten international concern over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where infrastructure has been decimated and basic supplies — including water, electricity, and medical care — remain in severe shortage.
Global human rights organisations and several UN bodies have warned that further Israeli expansion in Gaza could result in massive civilian casualties and potentially violate international laws governing proportionality and military conduct.
While Netanyahu’s government has defended its operations as a necessary response to Hamas’s continued rocket fire and hostage-taking, critics have raised questions over the long-term strategic goals and the human cost of continued escalation.
Political Stakes for Netanyahu
The reported push for total control comes amid mounting domestic political pressure on Netanyahu, who has faced both protests and legal scrutiny in Israel over his leadership during the conflict. Analysts say the prime minister may be seeking to reassert control and solidify his political base by pursuing a more hardline approach.
Critics argue that a full occupation could draw Israel deeper into a prolonged ground war, potentially worsening regional instability and complicating relations with key allies, including the United States and European Union.
Netanyahu’s office has not officially confirmed the decision or commented on the leaked statements. However, all eyes are now on the upcoming security cabinet meeting, where the fate of this controversial plan will likely be determined.
Editing by M10News International Desk | Contact: internationaldesk@m10news.com
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