On Tuesday, August 5, 2025, an Israeli security cabinet meeting set to discuss Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s bold plan for a full occupation of Gaza was postponed. The delay comes as debates heat up over whether the plan can even work. Sources say Netanyahu wants a major offensive to take control of Gaza after nearly two years of fighting Hamas. However, senior military leaders warn this could put Israeli hostages at risk and isolate Israel globally.
According to The Guardian, the plan has sparked deep divides within Israel’s government. Military officials, including Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir, argue that occupying Gaza would endanger hostages, strain soldiers, and anger the international community. Meanwhile, far-right ministers like Bezalel Smotrich push for a takeover, even suggesting new Jewish settlements in Gaza. This split has delayed the cabinet’s decision, leaving the plan in limbo.
For now, ceasefire talks with Hamas are stalled. Israeli officials claim Hamas is to blame, but Hamas says Israel’s demands are too harsh. A Palestinian official told Reuters that Israel’s threats might be a tactic to pressure Hamas into concessions. Yet, the official added, Hamas won’t budge without a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza.
Meanwhile, Gaza’s humanitarian crisis worsens. The Gaza Health Ministry reports over 61,000 deaths and 150,000 injuries since October 2023. A global hunger monitor warned of an unfolding famine, with aid blocked for months. On Tuesday, Israeli strikes killed at least 13 Palestinians, including five in a tent in Khan Younis. The United Nations called any expanded military action a “catastrophic” risk for Gaza’s 2.1 million people.
Israel’s Defense Minister Israel Katz suggested a smaller plan, proposing a permanent “security buffer zone” in Gaza to prevent attacks. “This is the lesson of October 7,” Katz said, stressing the need to protect Israeli communities. But critics, including former commanders, say a full occupation would be a logistical nightmare. They point to the challenge of managing a hostile population and the lack of international support.
Public sentiment in Israel is mixed. Families of the 50 remaining hostages fear an offensive could harm their loved ones. Protests erupted after videos showed emaciated hostages, with one digging his own grave. Polls show 75% of Israelis prefer a ceasefire deal over more fighting. Yet, hardline ministers like Itamar Ben-Gvir demand tougher action, even blocking aid to starve Gaza.
Internationally, the plan faces backlash. The UN’s Miroslav Jenča warned of dire consequences, urging a ceasefire. China’s Geng Shuang called on Israel to halt “dangerous actions.” European nations, including the UK, oppose expanded operations and may recognize a Palestinian state if the war continues. US President Donald Trump dodged questions about the plan, focusing instead on food aid for Gaza.
At AMERICA NEWS WORLD, we’ve tracked the Gaza conflict closely. Our team at america112.com digs into global stories to bring you clear, honest updates. The situation in Gaza remains fluid, with Israel’s next steps unclear. Will Netanyahu push for occupation, or will cooler heads prevail? Stay tuned for more.
Chart: Gaza Conflict Timeline (October 2023 – August 2025)
This chart tracks Palestinian deaths and Israeli hostages held in Gaza from October 2023 to August 2025, based on data from the Gaza Health Ministry and Israeli reports.
Why This Matters
The Gaza conflict affects millions, from families in Israel to displaced Palestinians. At AMERICA NEWS WORLD, we aim to keep you informed with straightforward reporting. The postponed cabinet meeting signals uncertainty, but the stakes are high. An occupation could reshape the Middle East, deepen global divides, and worsen Gaza’s crisis.
What’s Next?
Netanyahu may call another meeting soon, possibly Thursday, to finalize plans. For now, Israel’s military is reinforcing buffer zones, and reservists are on standby. Hamas insists on a full ceasefire, while international pressure mounts for peace. Keep checking america112.com for the latest updates.
also read:PM Modi Slams Terrorism Double Standards in Brazil