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Sunday 22/02/2026

Israel's Gaza City Takeover Plan Sparks Global Outcry and Domestic Concerns

World leaders in heated discussion at a table with city turmoil backdrop
Ethan BrooksEthan Brooks

In This Article

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Israel's security cabinet approved a plan to take control of Gaza City, intensifying the ongoing conflict.
  • The decision has been met with international condemnation, including from the UN and several world leaders.
  • Families of hostages held by Hamas express concern that the escalation endangers their loved ones.
  • UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and other leaders urge Israel to reconsider, advocating for a ceasefire and humanitarian aid.
  • Germany has halted military exports to Israel, citing concerns over the humanitarian impact of the escalation.

Israel's recent decision to take control of Gaza City has ignited a wave of international criticism and domestic unrest. The Israeli security cabinet's approval of the plan marks a significant escalation in the 22-month conflict that has already claimed tens of thousands of Palestinian lives and devastated the region.

International Condemnation

The plan has drawn sharp rebuke from global leaders and organizations. The United Nations warned that the move could lead to "more massive forced displacement" and further humanitarian suffering. Countries including the UK, France, and Canada have voiced their opposition, with Germany taking the notable step of halting military exports to Israel. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz emphasized the need for a ceasefire and humanitarian aid, stating that further military action complicates achieving these goals.

Domestic Opposition and Hostage Concerns

Within Israel, the decision has faced backlash from military officials and families of hostages held by Hamas. The Hostages and Missing Families Forum expressed fears that the escalation abandons their loved ones, urging for a negotiated solution instead. Anat Angrest, whose son is among the captives, criticized the government for prioritizing military action over negotiation.

Calls for Ceasefire and Diplomacy

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemned the plan as "wrong," advocating for a ceasefire and increased humanitarian aid. He stressed the importance of diplomatic solutions, urging both Israel and Hamas to step back from the brink of further destruction. Similar sentiments were echoed by other leaders, including Australia's Foreign Minister Penny Wong and Turkey's foreign ministry, who called for immediate de-escalation.

Strategic and Humanitarian Implications

The Israeli government, led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, insists on the necessity of the plan to disarm Hamas and secure the release of hostages. However, critics argue that the strategy risks prolonging the conflict and exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The plan's focus on Gaza City, the enclave's most populous area, raises concerns about the potential for increased civilian casualties and displacement.

WHAT THIS MIGHT MEAN

The international community's response to Israel's Gaza City takeover plan could lead to increased diplomatic pressure on Israel to reconsider its strategy. If global condemnation continues, Israel may face further economic and political consequences, such as additional sanctions or reduced military support from allies. Domestically, the Israeli government might encounter growing public dissent, particularly from families of hostages and military personnel.

In the coming weeks, the focus may shift towards renewed ceasefire negotiations, with international mediators playing a crucial role in facilitating dialogue between Israel and Hamas. The humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire, and any escalation could worsen conditions for civilians. A successful diplomatic intervention could pave the way for a more sustainable resolution to the conflict, emphasizing the need for a two-state solution and long-term peace in the region.

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Image Source: Daniel Beltrá/Greenpeace