Israel’s security cabinet has approved a plan to occupy Gaza City, signaling a new phase in the ongoing conflict with Hamas. The decision was made early Friday morning after an overnight cabinet meeting led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
The approval follows Netanyahu’s earlier statement that Israel intends to regain full control of the Gaza Strip and eventually transfer authority to friendly Arab forces that oppose Hamas. This move marks a significant escalation in Israel’s military strategy, as Gaza City remains one of the few areas not fully under Israeli control.
Since the outbreak of the war on October 7, 2023, Israel has launched heavy airstrikes and ground raids across Gaza. Many regions in the territory have either been evacuated or turned into buffer zones. However, Gaza City has largely remained outside that control — until now.
The city's strategic importance lies in its dense population and its role as a stronghold for Hamas’s political and military operations. Occupying it would give Israel a tighter grip on the northern part of the territory and potentially weaken Hamas’s remaining capabilities.
Despite widespread international concern over civilian casualties, Israel continues to push forward with its military campaign. The cabinet’s decision appears to be in line with Netanyahu’s broader vision of restructuring post-war Gaza by removing Hamas from power entirely.
No timeline has been provided yet for when the ground operation to occupy Gaza City will begin. However, military analysts believe it could start soon given the urgency expressed by Israeli leadership and the scale of current operations around the city.
As tensions rise, the humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire. With more areas facing evacuation and bombardment, aid organizations have warned of worsening conditions for civilians who have few safe places left to go.
The move to occupy Gaza City is likely to draw further international attention and potentially more calls for restraint. However, Israel’s government seems committed to its strategy of military pressure combined with long-term political restructuring in the region.
Global
California GOP Seeks Court Block on Newsom’s Redistricting Election
California’s redistricting battle has escalated after state Republicans filed an emergency petition to block a special election on Governor Gavin Newsom’s redistricting plan.
Ukraine Drone Strike Ignites Fire at Russian Nuclear Power Plant
A Ukrainian drone strike on a Russian nuclear power plant sparked a massive fire, intensifying tensions in the ongoing conflict.
California Supreme Court Allows Newsom’s Redistricting Plan
The California Supreme Court has declined to block Democrats from moving forward with Governor Gavin Newsom’s redistricting plan, clearing the way for the legislature to vote on it Thursday.
Republican States Send National Guard Troops to Washington DC
Three Republican-led states will send National Guard troops to Washington, DC, adding to the forces President Donald Trump has already deployed in the capital.
Japan’s Military Shift Strengthens Security Role in Northeast Asia
Japan has rapidly transformed its defence policy in recent years, moving away from its post-war pacifist stance under Article 9 of the constitution to embrace a proactive security strategy.
Trump to Meet Putin in Alaska Amid Push for Ukraine Ceasefire
President Donald Trump has confirmed that he will meet Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska on Friday, August 15, in what could be a pivotal moment in efforts to end the war in Ukraine.
Red Crescent Worker Killed in Israeli Strike on Gaza Office
A strike on the Palestine Red Crescent Society (PRCS) headquarters in Khan Younis, Gaza, has killed one staff member and injured three others, prompting strong condemnation from the humanitarian group.
Nicaragua Backs Russia’s Annexation of Four Ukrainian Regions
Nicaragua has officially recognized Russia’s annexation of four regions in Ukraine, becoming one of the few countries to publicly endorse Moscow’s controversial move.
Russian Airstrike on Ukraine Prison Kills 17, Injures Dozens
A deadly Russian airstrike on a prison in southeastern Ukraine has killed 17 inmates and left 42 others injured, according to Ukrainian officials.