Israel Plans to Conquer Gaza, Displace Population, and Defeat Hamas Amid Hostage Crisis

Israel's government has approved a plan for expanded military operations in the Gaza Strip, aiming to conquer and hold the territory. The operation includes moving most of the population southward, with Israeli officials indicating that the goal is to defeat Hamas and secure the release of hostages. Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has stated that Israel will not withdraw from Gaza, even in exchange for hostages, emphasizing that the release of captives is contingent on subduing Hamas. Smotrich's plan also involves the expulsion of 1.5 to 2 million Gazans, aligning with a proposal by US President Donald Trump. This stance has been criticized by the Hostage Families Forum, which argues that the plan prioritizes territory over the safety of hostages. Hamas has condemned the Israeli plan, describing it as a clear decision to sacrifice Israeli prisoners and a continuation of a cycle of failure. The group has accused Israel of conducting a 'hunger war' and called on Arab and Islamic countries, as well as the international community, to take immediate action to stop the Israeli aggression and hold its leaders accountable. The United Nations and humanitarian organizations have expressed alarm at the plan, warning that it will lead to further civilian casualties and exacerbate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The UN has criticized the proposed Israeli control over aid distribution as a violation of humanitarian principles. A former Israeli official mentioned that a full-scale invasion of Gaza would require at least 60,000 troops, a scenario opposed by military commanders due to a lack of necessary personnel.