Israel Plans Full Gaza Occupation, Faces Criticism

Israel's Cabinet has approved a plan to capture and indefinitely occupy the entire Gaza Strip, escalating its military operations against Hamas. The plan includes relocating hundreds of thousands of Palestinians to southern Gaza, raising international concerns about forcible displacement and worsening humanitarian conditions. Tens of thousands of Israeli reservists are being mobilized to support this expanded offensive, which aims to defeat Hamas and secure the release of hostages. The European Union and other international actors have criticized the plan, while families of Israeli hostages have called for a ceasefire to avoid putting their loved ones at further risk. Implementation may occur after an upcoming visit by U.S. President Donald Trump, potentially allowing time for ceasefire negotiations. Some Israeli officials have openly discussed the possibility of annexing Gaza and maintaining permanent control over the territory.