Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has declared that a full-scale military takeover of Gaza City would be the most effective strategy to bring the protracted Israel-Hamas war to a swift conclusion. The controversial statement has sparked intense debate among international observers and regional stakeholders.
The Strategic Rationale
According to Netanyahu, controlling Gaza City would allow Israeli forces to dismantle Hamas's operational infrastructure more efficiently. "This approach minimises prolonged urban warfare and reduces civilian casualties," he argued during a recent press briefing.
International Reactions
The proposal has drawn mixed responses:
- US officials expressed cautious concern, urging Israel to prioritise civilian safety.
- Arab League members condemned the plan as escalatory.
- EU diplomats called for renewed ceasefire negotiations.
Humanitarian Concerns
UN agencies warn that intensified military operations in Gaza City could exacerbate the territory's humanitarian crisis, where over 2 million civilians already face severe shortages of food, water, and medical supplies.
Military Analysis
Defence experts suggest the operation would require:
- Precise intelligence on Hamas positions
- Large-scale troop deployments
- Extended occupation logistics
The coming weeks will prove critical as Israel weighs this high-stakes strategic decision against growing international pressure for de-escalation.
