Israel’s security cabinet has approved a plan to seize control of Gaza City, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office confirmed. The majority of ministers rejected an alternative strategy, citing doubts it would defeat Hamas or secure the release of hostages, BBC reported.
The UN warned the operation could lead to catastrophic consequences, while families of hostages expressed fears for their loved ones’ safety. The decision comes amid growing international calls for an end to the conflict and increased humanitarian aid access.
The conflict began after Hamas’s October 7 attack, which killed around 1,200 Israelis and took 251 hostages. Since then, over 61,000 Palestinians have died in Israel’s military offensive, according to Gaza’s health ministry. Access for international media to Gaza remains heavily restricted, according to BBC.
