The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) on Wednesday advanced into the outskirts of Gaza City, marking what Brig. Gen. Effie Defrin called “the next phase of the war.” Troops are preparing to relocate displaced residents further south as fighting intensifies. Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has authorized the call-up of 60,000 reservists to boost operations.
Parallel move in the West Bank
At the same time, Israel approved construction of 3,400 new settler homes in the occupied West Bank. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich said the move shows that the “idea of a Palestinian state is being erased.” The settlement plan has sparked international concern, coming amid renewed ceasefire mediation.
Ceasefire prospects under strain
Mediators had circulated a truce proposal close to terms Israel had previously accepted. However, the Gaza takeover push has cast doubt on whether talks can move forward.
Why it matters
If Israel establishes full control of Gaza, it would effectively undo its 2005 disengagement, when troops and settlers withdrew. Since then, Israel has controlled Gaza’s borders, airspace, and utilities, but not its interior. Critics argue the pullout allowed Hamas to gain power in 2006 elections; Israeli officials say the new campaign is meant to prevent Hamas from regrouping.
Uncertain future governance
No Arab state has agreed to administer Gaza after the war. Jordan has said any post-war plan must be Palestinian-led. Hamas has warned that any force governing Gaza alongside Israel would be treated as an occupying power. An earlier Egyptian plan for a neutral Palestinian committee was rejected by both Israel and the U.S.
Humanitarian crisis deepens
The Israeli military claims to control 75% of Gaza, but the humanitarian toll is devastating. More than 2 million residents have faced repeated displacement in 22 months of war. Aid groups warn famine is near; civilians like Aya Mohammad, 30, say, “Where should we go? We have been displaced and humiliated enough.” Hamas insists it will only accept a deal that permanently ends the war, while Israel says Hamas refuses to cede power.
