Israeli Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir has detailed a phased plan to fully occupy Gaza City, even as ceasefire and prisoner swap negotiations continue between Israel and Hamas.
According to public broadcaster KAN, Zamir approved the strategy on Sunday, with Defense Minister Israel Katz expected to give his final approval on Tuesday.
Broader Reoccupation Plan
The move follows Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s earlier approval of a broader plan to gradually reoccupy the entire Gaza Strip, beginning with Gaza City.
The plan envisions forcing nearly 1 million Palestinians southward, encircling the city, and launching ground raids into residential districts.
Recent Assault on Zeitoun
On August 11, the Israeli army launched a major offensive in Gaza City’s Zeitoun neighborhood.
Witnesses reported homes being destroyed with explosive-laden robots, alongside artillery fire, indiscriminate shooting, and mass displacement of civilians.
Military Expansion in Northern Gaza
According to Walla, Zamir’s plan incorporates “key principles and lessons” to improve the effectiveness of the occupation.
It also calls for reinforcing Israeli forces in northern Gaza to tighten military pressure on Hamas and pave the way for full takeover.
Ceasefire and Prisoner Swap Negotiations
The preparations come as Hamas has accepted a 60-day ceasefire proposal brokered by Egypt and Qatar. The group has expressed willingness to release Israeli captives in exchange for:
- An end to the war
- Full Israeli withdrawal
- Release of Palestinian prisoners
Humanitarian Toll and International Cases
Since October 2023, Israel’s military campaign has killed more than 62,000 Palestinians in Gaza, leaving the enclave devastated and on the brink of famine.
- In November, the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued arrest warrants for Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant for war crimes.
- Israel also faces a genocide case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
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