On August 8, 2025, Israel’s political-security cabinet approved a plan to take control of Gaza City as part of a broader campaign to dismantle Hamas and secure the release of hostages. Israel’s leadership clarified that this move is not intended as permanent governance—the goal is a security perimeter, with eventual transfer of control to unspecified friendly Arab administrations.
However, this escalation has drawn sharp criticism—domestically and internationally—due to the humanitarian catastrophe unfolding in Gaza, widespread famine warnings, and the risk to Israeli hostages still held by Hamas.   
Domestic Fallout in Israel
• Military dissent: IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir has warned that occupying Gaza risks pushing Israel into a long, costly conflict, severely straining the military and endangering hostages.
• Public protests: Families of hostages and opponents of the plan have demonstrated across Israel accusing the government of risking innocent lives. Critics, including former security officials, have labeled the strategy as politically opportunistic and militarily unwise.
Global Response & Reactions
Australia
Foreign Minister Penny Wong bluntly urged Israel not to pursue military control of Gaza, warning it would deepen the humanitarian crisis. She reiterated support for a two-state solution and stressed respect for international law.  
United Kingdom & European Allies
While not leading with a formal statement yet, the UK ambassador to Israel cautioned that further military escalation would be unwise and that political and diplomatic avenues must remain forefront.  
Other European voices—particularly in May 2025—expressed strong opposition to expanding Israel’s military actions, with threats of sanctions and condemnation of plans that resembled ethnic cleansing. 
United Nations & International NGOs
UN officials have warned that Israel’s plan could result in catastrophic humanitarian outcomes. The UN human rights office condemned the offensive as potentially crossing the line into ethnic cleansing, stating it breaches basic humanitarian principles.  
Regional and Other Actors
• Hamas denounced the move as a betrayal of negotiations, accusing Netanyahu of deliberately stalling peace efforts.
• Indonesia announced humanitarian measures, including treating Gazan casualties on Galang Island. France faced protests tied to El Al, and broader global tensions are rising.
