Cabinet unanimously approves continuation of Gaza campaign - and the occupation of the Gaza Strip 

The political-security Cabinet unanimously approved today (Monday) the operational plan proposed by IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir to defeat Hamas and return the hostages, which is in full line with what Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said in recent months.

The Cabinet approved by a large majority the possibility of humanitarian distribution, if necessary, that would prevent Hamas from taking control of the supplies and destroy its governing capabilities. At the Cabinet meeting, it was said that at this stage there is enough food in Gaza.

The plan will include, among other things, the occupation of the Gaza Strip and the holding of the territories, the movement of the Gaza population south for its defense, the denial of the ability of Hamas to distribute humanitarian supplies, and powerful attacks against Hamas, actions that will help in the decisive victory.

Prime Minister Netanyahu said at the meeting that this is a good plan because it can achieve both goals: defeating Hamas and returning the hostages. He clarified that the plan differs from its predecessors in that we are moving from the method of raids to occupying the territories and remaining in them.

The Chief of Staff said at the hearing: "We are on the way to defeating Hamas, while this will help return the hostages." The prime minister added that he continues to promote the Trump plan to allow the voluntary departure of Gazans, and noted that contacts are being held on the issue with a number of countries.