Israel has rejected international condemnation after approving a plan to take full control of Gaza City. Defence Minister Israel Katz said threats of sanctions would not deter the country’s resolve, calling Israel a “strong, united fist”, BBC reported.
The plan aims to disarm Hamas, free hostages, demilitarize Gaza, and establish a new civil administration. Israeli forces would first secure Gaza City, relocating about one million residents south, followed by further operations.
The move drew criticism from the UN, several countries, and humanitarian groups, warning it would worsen Gaza’s suffering and risk civilian lives. Families of hostages in Israel also expressed deep concern.
The US showed less opposition, with President Trump saying Israel can decide its actions. The conflict, triggered by Hamas’s October attack, has caused heavy casualties and a worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza, according to BBC.
