Mon May 05 09:20:00 UTC 2025: ## Israel Plans Full Gaza Occupation, Control of Aid, and Potential Palestinian Expulsion

**JERUSALEM** – Israel is reportedly planning a dramatic escalation in its Gaza offensive, including a potential full-scale occupation of the territory, control over all humanitarian aid delivery, and the possible expulsion of Palestinians. This plan, approved by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s Security Cabinet, has sparked intense internal debate and international condemnation.

Unnamed Israeli officials have revealed plans for the Israeli military to take over the distribution of food and other essential supplies to Gaza’s 2.3 million residents. News agencies report that this plan goes further, potentially encompassing the “conquest” and occupation of the entire Gaza Strip, with the relocation of Palestinians to the south of the enclave. The plan also reportedly incorporates elements of a previous proposal for the voluntary departure of Palestinians, championed by former US President Donald Trump.

The Israeli government denies claims of famine in Gaza, despite having blocked aid supplies for 16 days before resuming its offensive. The proposed aid distribution would involve international organizations and private security contractors overseen by Israeli soldiers, a plan rejected by the UN’s Humanitarian Country Team (HCT) as violating fundamental humanitarian principles and designed to exert pressure. Hamas has also condemned the plan as political blackmail.

The controversial plan has caused rifts within the Israeli government. While Netanyahu maintains the goal is to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas, the Hostages and Missing Families Forum argues the plan jeopardizes their safety. Army chief Eyal Zamir warned against a full-scale offensive, fearing the loss of hostages, and clashed with National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, who advocated for completely cutting off aid to Gaza.

Opposition leaders have criticized Netanyahu’s mobilization of reservists without a clear objective, questioning the strategic rationale and suggesting the move is primarily intended to stabilize his government. The plan, while not immediately implemented, fuels concerns about a deepening humanitarian crisis and a potential major escalation of the conflict. The UN and numerous humanitarian organizations have reiterated their commitment to providing aid but insist on maintaining their independence and neutrality, rejecting Israel’s proposed system. The proposed “humanitarian zone” in southern Gaza and previous failed attempts at aid delivery via sea and air highlight the complex and fraught logistical challenges.

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