Netanyahu Unveils Plans to Fully Control Gaza, Yet Denies Intention to Govern

Netanyahu Declares Full Gaza Control Strategy Despite Military Opposition

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced Thursday that Israel intends to establish complete military control over Gaza before eventually transferring governance to Arab forces. The declaration comes amid reported resistance from senior military officials and sets the stage for expanded operations that could reshape the conflict's trajectory and regional dynamics.

The Strategic Vision: Control Without Governance

In interviews with Fox News and Indian journalists, Netanyahu outlined a phased approach that distinguishes between military control and administrative governance. "We intend to do that. We don't want to keep it, we want a security perimeter. We don't want to rule it, we don't want to be there as a ruling entity," he stated when asked about controlling the entire strip.

The plan envisions transferring Gaza to what Netanyahu described as a "temporary governing body" managed by Arab forces capable of administering the territory "efficiently without threatening us, while providing a good life for Gaza residents." This framework explicitly excludes Hamas from any future governance role.

Internal Military Resistance Emerges

According to Axios reporting, senior Israeli military commanders and security officials oppose the full occupation strategy. Israeli Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir reportedly warned Netanyahu in a meeting that he was "walking into a trap" by pursuing complete territorial control.

This internal dissent reflects broader concerns about the strategic wisdom and operational feasibility of long-term occupation. Military leaders appear to favor more limited objectives that avoid the complexities of governing a hostile population of over two million people.

Trump Administration's Non-Interference Stance

The timing of Netanyahu's announcement coincides with reported US policy shifts under President Donald Trump. Axios indicated that Trump has decided not to oppose Netanyahu's Gaza occupation plans, effectively giving Israel carte blanche to make decisions it deems appropriate.

This represents a significant departure from typical American diplomatic involvement in Israeli military planning and could remove a key constraint on Israeli operations. The hands-off approach may embolden Netanyahu to pursue more aggressive strategies despite domestic military opposition.

Security Cabinet Decision Looms

Israel's security cabinet was scheduled to convene Thursday to debate expanding military operations throughout Gaza. The meeting is expected to approve comprehensive military plans for controlling remaining areas outside Israeli control, according to unnamed Israeli officials.

Any approved strategy would be implemented gradually to increase pressure on Hamas, suggesting a methodical approach rather than immediate full-scale occupation. This phased implementation could allow for tactical adjustments based on resistance levels and international reactions.

Regional and International Implications

Netanyahu's vision of Arab governance raises critical questions about which regional actors might assume administrative control. The plan's success depends entirely on identifying willing and capable Arab partners—a challenging proposition given widespread regional opposition to Israeli policies.

The strategy faces potential severe international opposition, particularly from European allies and regional powers. Even domestically, families of hostages held by Hamas may oppose expanded military operations that could endanger their relatives' safety.

Netanyahu suggested the conflict could end "tomorrow" if Hamas surrendered weapons and released all hostages unconditionally, though this appears increasingly unlikely given the group's stated positions and the evolving military situation.