Middle East Israel to 'Fully Occupy' Gaza: Hostage Safety Concerns Rise

[CharlieH]

 

Freed hostages have described their harrowing time in Hamas tunnels, where the looming threat of Israeli air strikes added to their terror. Now, Israel's Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, is considering a significant military action that might bring IDF tanks directly over these tunnels, causing further concern for hostage safety.

 

Israel is contemplating a "full occupation" of Gaza, a strategy aimed at rescuing hostages and neutralising Hamas. This approach could involve major ground operations in areas like Gaza City and Deir al-Balah, locations believed to house hostages. The decision represents a drastic shift in Israel's tactics, which have avoided major ground incursions in such sensitive areas.

 

Approximately 1.4 million Palestinians could be impacted, as these are densely populated regions. Critics fear the military operation might endanger hostages, with some suggesting it could lead to fatalities. Despite this, Netanyahu's government argues the dire conditions faced by hostages justify urgent military intervention.

 

Amid leaks hinting at an occupation plan, the IDF's top brass are reportedly concerned, proposing alternative tactics like "encirclement." Deputy Foreign Minister Sharren Haskel acknowledged ongoing discussions about the occupation strategy, highlighting the urgency perceived by Israeli leadership.

 

Families of hostages, like Viki Cohen, express despair over the proposed military action. Many believe a peaceful resolution is impossible, leaving military pressure as the only option. Videos showing the deteriorating condition of hostages have intensified calls for decisive action.

Netanyahu supposedly has the backing of key allies, but faces internal dissent from military leaders like Lt Gen Eyal Zamir. Reports suggest tensions between Israel's political and military establishments, with over 550 retired military and intelligence officers petitioning US President Donald Trump to intervene.

 

The proposal to fully occupy Gaza raises profound ethical and strategic dilemmas amid Israel's commitment to democratic principles. Opposition leader Yair Lapid cautions against public disputes, urging discreet resolution of disagreements between the government and military.

This contentious military strategy could see more areas in Gaza devastated, potentially displacing another million civilians. As Israel navigates this complex crisis, the balance between military objectives and humanitarian consequences remains a contentious focal point.

 

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Telegraph 2025-08-05

 

[FlorC]

This is not about hostage safety concerns.

[Eric Loh]

Diplomacy isolation, backlash from citizens and another nail to the economy. Your move Netanyahu or you just saber rattling. You have Trump in your back pocket for support. 

[ezzra]

This is the only way out of this situation as Hamas will never let the hostages go as they are the only ticket to their survival.

And so, with no other alternative, this is the only way out.

[ezzra]

9 minutes ago, Eric Loh said:

Diplomacy isolation, backlash from citizens and another nail to the economy. Your move Netanyahu or you just saber rattling. You have Trump in your back pocket for support. 

Not sure what was the point of your post.

[ezzra]

18 minutes ago, FlorC said:

This is not about hostage safety concerns.

Yes, It's about Do or Die.

[Eric Loh]

7 minutes ago, ezzra said:

Not sure what was the point of your post.

The point is that Netanyahu will do a version of Trump TACO. 

[ezzra]

4 minutes ago, Eric Loh said:

The point is that Netanyahu will do a version of Trump TACO. 

''Don't judge a man until you walk a mile in his shoes''

[Eric Loh]

32 minutes ago, ezzra said:

''Don't judge a man until you walk a mile in his shoes''

He should walk a mile in an average Palestinian shoes in Gaza.