Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is reportedly examining a plan that could potentially seal off humanitarian aid to northern Gaza in an effort to weaken Hamas militants. The plan, proposed by a group of retired generals, aims to pressure Hamas by cutting off essential supplies to the region.
The plan suggests giving Palestinians a week to evacuate the northern third of the Gaza Strip, including Gaza City, before declaring it a closed military zone. Those who choose to remain would be considered combatants and could be denied access to food, water, medicine, and fuel.
While there has been no official decision to implement the plan, some parts are reportedly already being put into action. The proposal has raised concerns among human rights groups, who argue that it could have severe consequences for civilians and violate international law.
Despite evacuation orders issued throughout the yearlong conflict, few Palestinians have left the area, citing concerns about safety and the fear of not being allowed to return. The plan aims to create a new administration in the north without Hamas presence, effectively splitting the Gaza Strip in two.
The proposal comes as Hamas continues to demonstrate resilience, launching rockets into Tel Aviv and regrouping in various areas following Israeli offensives. The ongoing conflict has resulted in significant casualties, with over 42,000 Palestinians reported dead, according to Gaza's Health Ministry.
The plan's chief architect, Giora Eiland, believes that cutting off aid to Hamas-controlled areas could force the group to release Israeli hostages held since a previous attack. However, critics argue that the plan's approach is inhumane and could lead to a humanitarian crisis.
As the situation unfolds, the international community, including the United States, has expressed opposition to any plan that involves direct Israeli occupation in Gaza. The potential impact on civilians in northern Gaza remains a major point of concern, with reports indicating a shortage of essential supplies and limited access to aid.
With tensions escalating and no clear resolution in sight, the fate of those in northern Gaza hangs in the balance as discussions around the controversial plan continue.
