In one of his most hard-hitting interviews to date, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has unveiled a dramatic shift in Israel’s Gaza policy. Speaking with FOX News anchor Bill Hemmer, Netanyahu declared that Israel will take full control of the Gaza Strip—a stunning reversal nearly 20 years after Israel’s unilateral withdrawal from the territory.
Framed as both a military necessity and a humanitarian mission, the plan seeks to “liberate” civilians from Hamas rule, eliminate the group’s military capabilities, and restructure Gaza’s governance for a post-Hamas era.
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A Turning Point in Policy
For years, Israel’s approach to Gaza has relied on periodic military operations, containment, and indirect control through blockades. Netanyahu’s new strategy signals the end of that era.
> “We cannot allow Hamas to ever regain control,” he stated. “Israel will finish this fight and secure a new future for Gaza’s people.”
According to the Prime Minister, the long-term vision includes:
Complete military dismantling of Hamas
Full Israeli security control over the strip
Transfer of civil administration to a regional Arab authority, excluding both Hamas and the Palestinian Authority
This is not just a battlefield plan—it is a blueprint for reshaping Gaza’s political reality.
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Inside the Military Blueprint
The strategy rests on a five-point framework approved by Israel’s security cabinet:
1. Destroy Hamas’ military and political infrastructure
2. Return all Israeli hostages
3. Demilitarize Gaza completely
4. Establish long-term Israeli security control
5. Create an alternative civilian administration with no role for Hamas or the Palestinian Authority
One of the most controversial elements is the planned occupation of Gaza City, which would involve large-scale evacuations. Reports suggest that up to one million civilians could be displaced by October 7, a date that carries heavy symbolism as the anniversary of the 2023 Hamas attacks.
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The Humanitarian and Political Risks
Military planners and human rights groups are warning of severe consequences. Evacuations on such a scale could lead to a humanitarian catastrophe, with shortages of shelter, food, and medical supplies.
Inside Israel, the move is not without resistance.
IDF Chief Eyal Zamir has reportedly warned the plan may endanger hostages and soldiers.
Opposition leader Yair Lapid has called it a “strategic disaster in the making.”
Families of hostages have staged protests, fearing military escalation will jeopardize their loved ones’ safety.
Global Reactions: From Condemnation to Concern
The international backlash has been swift:
UN Secretary-General António Guterres condemned the move as a “dangerous escalation” with potential for mass destruction.
Germany has suspended arms exports for use in Gaza.
Leaders from Britain, France, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Iran, Canada, and others have denounced the plan, some accusing Israel of laying the groundwork for ethnic cleansing.
Meanwhile, regional powers are wary of being handed the reins in Gaza, with few signaling a willingness to govern a post-Hamas territory under Israeli security oversight.
A Gamble With Long-Term Consequences
Supporters of Netanyahu’s plan argue it’s the only way to guarantee Hamas will never rebuild its military machine. Critics warn it could entangle Israel in a “forever war”, drain resources, and leave the region even more unstable.
While Netanyahu insists the occupation will be temporary, history shows such arrangements are easier to start than to end. The next months will determine whether this bold gamble reshapes Gaza—or plunges it into deeper chaos.
Bottom line:
Netanyahu’s announcement is more than just another phase in the Gaza conflict—it’s a high-stakes redefinition of Israel’s role in the territory. Whether it becomes a decisive victory or a prolonged quagmire will depend on how the military, regional players, and the international community respond in the turbulent months ahead.
