From settlements to blocked recovery: Israeli strategy taking shape in Gaza

Israeli officials, including Defense Minister Israel Katz and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, are advocating for the establishment of settlements in northern Gaza. These calls echo the goals of Israel's settler movement, which seeks to expel Palestinians and settle the territory. Analysts suggest this strategy aims to make life in Gaza impossible by destroying infrastructure and obstructing aid, thereby forcing the Palestinian population out. The Israeli government previously announced plans for "voluntary migration" of Palestinians from Gaza, a move widely condemned internationally. Despite international pressure and a US-brokered plan for withdrawal, some Israeli officials express intentions to maintain a military presence and establish settlements, a policy supported by a significant majority of Jewish Israelis. Restrictions on humanitarian aid continue to exacerbate dire conditions in Gaza.

Israeli Defense and Finance Ministers have announced plans to establish three new settlements in Gaza and allocate over $400 million for West Bank settlement expansion. Defense Minister Israel Katz intends to create three "Nahal" outposts in northern Gaza, a type of military community that historically precedes civilian settlements. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich revealed funding for dozens of new West Bank settlements, a decision kept secret due to anticipated US opposition. These moves come ahead of national elections on October 27th, with the government aiming to expand Israeli control over occupied Palestinian territories. A senior Israeli commander stated Israel now controls 65% of Gaza, exceeding a previous ceasefire agreement.