Middle East Gaza City expansion plan is 'best way to end the war'

[CharlieH]

 

Benjamin Netanyahu has unveiled a contentious plan to take control of Gaza City, claiming it as the "best way to end the war" in the Middle East. Despite fierce condemnation from many of Israel's allies, the Israeli Prime Minister is resolute in his approach to bring the entire Gaza Strip under his government’s dominion.

Netanyahu declares that Israel already controls approximately 75% of the enclave, targeting remaining strongholds: Gaza City and central camps, where Hamas militants are believed to hold sway. He insists that the objective is not occupation but "liberating" Gaza on a "fairly short timeline," focusing on demilitarisation, Israeli military's overarching security control, and a non-Israeli civilian administration taking charge.

 

Additionally, he proposes creating a "security zone" at Gaza’s border to prevent future incursions, referring to the devastating Hamas attack on October 7, 2023. In a marked shift, Netanyahu has instructed the Israeli military to allow more foreign journalists into Gaza, marking a significant change as access has been highly restricted.

 

Blaming Hamas for Gaza’s miseries, including civilian casualties and aid shortages, Netanyahu defends Israel’s military actions by stressing their unique aid facilitation into enemy territory, dismissing claims of a starvation policy. Yet, since the offensive began, reports show that over 61,000 Palestinians have died, excluding those from malnutrition. Alarmingly, over 200 deaths due to starvation have been recorded since June.

Despite mounting criticism from global leaders, Netanyahu remains steadfast, asserting that Israel is prepared to continue its campaign, irrespective of external support. He firmly states, "We will win the war, with or without the support of others."

 

This stance prompted the UN Security Council to convene an emergency meeting to address Netanyahu’s plans, amidst warnings of potential catastrophes and broader regional ramifications. UN Assistant Secretary Miroslav Jenca warned that such actions could trigger a new disaster in Gaza, causing widespread consequences like forced displacement and escalating violence.

 

Moreover, Slovenia's UN Ambassador Samuel Zbogar, speaking for European members, criticized the plan for jeopardizing hostage safety and worsening Gaza’s humanitarian crisis. Zbogar stressed that these moves could exacerbate an already dire situation, risking further casualties and mass displacement of Palestinian civilians.

 

The unveiling of Netanyahu's strategy has ignited international debate concerning its effectiveness in securing hostages and the future stability of Palestinian territories. Global leaders express concerns that this approach may intensify regional challenges, leading to increased bloodshed and dislocation.

As tensions mount, the international community remains sharply divided on approaches to manage the escalating conflict, emphasizing the urgent need for diplomatic discourse and humanitarian considerations. Amidst global scrutiny, the unfolding situation continues to draw significant attention as Netanyahu's plans progress.

 

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Daily Mail 2025-08-11