The Israeli Security Cabinet has approved a comprehensive plan to occupy Gaza City and forcibly displace its inhabitants, paving the way for a new military presence in the area.

According to Israeli sources, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Yisrael Katz have been granted authority to finalise military operations aimed at securing full control over Gaza City. The plan reportedly includes intentions to evacuate the city’s population by 7 October, after which a strict military siege will be enforced, and any remaining individuals may be designated as military targets.

Human rights groups have raised serious concerns, warning that the plan could lead to permanent forced displacement, potentially constituting a new historical trauma for the Palestinian population.

The Cabinet meeting reportedly featured significant internal dissent, with Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi expressing concerns about the risks posed to both Israeli soldiers and detainees in the event of an urban assault.

International responses have been critical. Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong condemned the plan as a clear breach of international law and called for the immediate establishment of humanitarian corridors. China also denounced the decision, while Turkey’s Foreign Ministry condemned the escalating military measures amid ongoing conflict.

The group governing Gaza criticised the plan as a political manoeuvre undermining ongoing negotiations, accusing Netanyahu of prioritising personal political gain and continuing policies of forced displacement.

In a striking development, families of Israeli prisoners held in Gaza condemned the government’s approach, describing it as “deceptive and unforgivable.” They argued that the decision exacerbates the crisis and reduces prospects for securing the release of their loved ones, urging public opposition to what they termed the government’s dangerous trajectory. They called for a comprehensive prisoner exchange as the only viable path forward, rather than further military escalation.