Israel seeks Gaza takeover under cabinet-approved plan

The Israeli government has unanimously approved a new operational plan for Gaza that involves the gradual conquest and occupation of the territory, with the stated aim of defeating Hamas and ensuring the return of hostages. According to officials, the plan will see Israeli forces seize control of Gaza, move civilian populations south for their safety, and prevent Hamas from accessing humanitarian aid, with distribution to be handled by private companies in the south. The government also intends to hold onto the ground seized, expanding beyond tactics of short raids, and has already established security zones covering about a third of Gaza. This plan follows the collapse of a U.S.-backed ceasefire and reflects continued international pressure and diminishing domestic support for the war. The Israeli cabinet claims the operation will achieve both the defeat of Hamas and the freeing of hostages, while also considering voluntary emigration options for Gazans. Humanitarian aid distribution will be restructured to prevent Hamas control, although implementation will wait until current food supplies in Gaza are deemed insufficient.