The phased plan, presented to ministers, aims to initially capture additional areas across the Strip and enlarge the existing buffer zone controlled by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). This first stage is intended to increase pressure on Hamas, compelling the group towards greater flexibility in negotiations for the release of Israeli hostages. IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir affirmed the military's intent to "operate in additional areas and destroy all infrastructure above and below ground."
According to the Haaretz report, citing an Israeli official, the plan includes the controversial element of relocating the Gazan population further south within the enclave. The official stated that Netanyahu believes this strategy can achieve the dual goals of defeating Hamas and securing the return of hostages, adding that negotiations regarding this population transfer are allegedly underway with several unspecified countries.
This reported shift towards occupation drew immediate condemnation from the Hostages and Missing Families Forum. They labeled the strategy the "Smotrich-Netanyahu plan," accusing the government of prioritizing territory over the lives of hostages, a move they claim contradicts the wishes of a majority of Israelis.
The cabinet meeting also saw heated debate regarding humanitarian aid. While approving a framework for foreign firms to distribute aid, National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir objected, arguing against providing any assistance and suggesting bombing Hamas's food reserves. The IDF Chief of Staff labeled these ideas "dangerous," prompting Ben-Gvir to assert Israel has no obligation to feed those it fights. Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara countered, stating Israel is legally required to permit humanitarian aid entry.
International concern remains high. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) stated Sunday that Israel has blocked all supply entries for the past nine weeks, leading to the shutdown of bakeries and kitchens and the emptying of food warehouses. OCHA criticized the proposed aid plan as contravening humanitarian principles and potentially endangering civilians.
The cabinet decision follows the IDF issuing thousands of reserve call-up orders over the weekend in preparation for the expanded campaign. While the duration is unclear, it is expected to be "significant." Many reservists will replace regular troops on other fronts, freeing upstanding army units for Gaza operations. However, reports mention growing exhaustion and reluctance among some reservists.
Amid these developments, IDF Chief of Staff Zamir reportedly emphasized to ministers that returning the hostages remains a primary objective, crucial for maintaining reservist morale, potentially contrasting with Netanyahu's focus on "victory." Zamir also reiterated his opposition to the IDF directly managing aid distribution, aligning with the cabinet's eventual decision to explore foreign firms for the role. The potential for diplomatic movement hinges partly on an upcoming visit by U.S. President Donald Trump to the region, though significant gaps reportedly remain between Israeli and Hamas positions.