Israel Plans to ‘Capture’ Gaza in Major Military Escalation

The Israeli security cabinet has approved a comprehensive military plan to “capture” the entire Gaza Strip, according to a senior government official speaking on condition of anonymity Monday. The decision marks a significant escalation in the conflict with Hamas and could usher in the most extensive Israeli ground operation in Gaza since the 2014 war.

“This is not about temporary operations or strategic strikes,” the official said. “It’s about full operational control — politically and militarily — of Gaza.”

The cabinet’s decision reportedly followed a closed-door meeting late Sunday night, during which senior military, intelligence, and political leaders reviewed updated assessments of Hamas’s military capacity, the humanitarian situation, and regional pressure points.

A Turning Point in Israel-Hamas Conflict

The approval of a capture strategy reflects a dramatic shift from Israel’s traditional doctrine of containment and targeted operations. For years, Israeli governments have resisted calls for full re-occupation of Gaza, citing high human and political costs.

However, continued rocket fire from the coastal enclave, Hamas’s deepening ties with Iran, and failed ceasefire negotiations appear to have changed the calculus.

“This decision reflects the growing consensus among Israeli leadership that Hamas cannot be deterred — only dismantled,” said Amos Harel, a security analyst with Haaretz. “But a full-scale occupation is a dangerous gamble.”

Military experts warn that such a campaign could trigger a long and bloody urban war, drawing condemnation from the international community and further destabilizing an already volatile region.

Objectives of the Operation

According to the unnamed official, the approved plan includes three primary objectives:

1. Neutralize Hamas Command and Control: Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) would target key political and military leaders of Hamas.

2. Establish Ground Control Over Gaza: The IDF would systematically move through Gaza’s major cities and districts.

3. Install an Interim Administrative Framework: Israel may set up a provisional governing structure in cooperation with regional partners, though specifics remain unclear.

The official emphasized that the plan is “not immediate” but provides a green light for preparations to move forward “at any moment.”

Reactions from the Palestinian Territories

News of the cabinet decision has sparked anxiety and anger across Gaza. In a statement Monday morning, Hamas warned Israel against “any reckless attempt to occupy Gaza,” saying it would lead to “a firestorm across the region.”

“If Israel invades, Gaza will become a graveyard for its soldiers,” said Hamas spokesperson Fawzi Barhoum. “We are prepared for all scenarios.”

Palestinian health officials report that over 300 people have already been killed in the last two weeks amid intensified Israeli airstrikes and ground raids on the Gaza border. Humanitarian agencies say the enclave is facing an “unprecedented crisis,” with fuel, food, and medical supplies running critically low.

International Community Urges Restraint

The United Nations and multiple foreign governments have urged Israel to reconsider the move, warning of catastrophic humanitarian consequences and the risk of regional escalation.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Washington is “deeply concerned” and is pressing Israel to explore “non-military solutions” to the conflict.

“We support Israel’s right to self-defense, but full-scale occupation is not the answer,” Blinken told reporters. “We urge de-escalation and renewed diplomacy.”

European leaders echoed that sentiment. French President Emmanuel Macron warned that an invasion would “deepen the cycle of violence,” while the German Foreign Ministry called for “an immediate return to ceasefire negotiations.”

Domestic Debate in Israel

Despite the cabinet’s unanimous vote, the decision has stirred debate inside Israel. While many on the right have called for a more aggressive stance toward Hamas, others fear the long-term implications of re-occupying Gaza.

Former Prime Minister Yair Lapid criticized the plan, calling it “shortsighted and politically driven.”

“Taking Gaza means ruling over two million Palestinians with no clear exit strategy,” Lapid said. “Have we forgotten the lessons of Lebanon?”

Human rights organizations in Israel also voiced concern, warning that a full capture of Gaza would likely involve significant civilian casualties and legal challenges under international law.

What’s Next?

Military analysts believe that the IDF could take several weeks to fully prepare for such an operation, involving troop reinforcements, intelligence coordination, and logistical planning. Meanwhile, the situation on the ground in Gaza remains highly volatile.

Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant did not confirm the plan in public remarks but said the IDF “is ready for all eventualities.”

“Our enemies will find no safe haven,” Gallant said. “We will act decisively to secure our borders and protect our people.”

The coming days are expected to be critical. If launched, the operation could redefine the Israeli  Palestinian conflict with repercussions felt well beyond the region.