Israel Approves Full Control of Gaza City Amid Rising Humanitarian Crisis

Israel’s security cabinet has approved a plan to take full control of Gaza City, a decision that has raised significant concerns regarding the humanitarian situation in the region. This announcement, made on August 7, 2025, comes amidst an escalating conflict that has already devastated the lives of millions in Gaza.

The situation in Gaza is dire. According to reports, Israel has maintained extensive control over various aspects of life in the region, including borders, water supply, and humanitarian access. As articulated by a resident of Gaza, the question remains: “What does it even mean for Israel to say it now wants full control of Gaza?” For many residents, including families like the one mentioned, the reality is that the area is already under constant military surveillance and aggression.

Humanitarian Impact of Military Strategy

The Israeli military’s actions have led to severe humanitarian consequences. Since early May 2024, a concerted offensive has seen the seizure of the Rafah border crossing and the escalation of military operations in urban areas. Tens of thousands have been forced to flee to designated “safe zones,” which have quickly become overcrowded and lacking essential resources. Reports indicate that these areas, such as Al-Mawasi, have faced severe shortages of food, water, and medical care.

The International Court of Justice ordered Israel to cease its military operations in Rafah on May 24, 2024, yet the Israeli government has not complied with this directive. The destruction of neighborhoods has continued unabated, further endangering the civilian population. Satellite imagery has revealed that much of Rafah has been deliberately razed, raising alarms about the potential for genocide as described by various human rights organizations and UN officials.

The humanitarian crisis has escalated to alarming levels, with children facing starvation and hospitals unable to function due to a lack of fuel and medical supplies. On-the-ground accounts reveal that civilians are resorting to desperate measures, such as grinding animal feed to make bread.

International Response and Accountability

Despite the clear humanitarian crisis, the international community has largely responded with statements of “deep concern.” Such rhetoric has been criticized as inadequate in the face of ongoing violence and civilian suffering. Observers point out that when Israel blocked humanitarian aid and conducted operations that resulted in civilian casualties, little effective action followed from global leaders.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has framed the military operations as necessary for the elimination of Hamas, yet many argue that the broader goal appears to be the systematic dismantling of Gaza as a viable living space. This ongoing conflict has prompted calls for immediate action, including the establishment of humanitarian corridors and legal accountability for those responsible for the violence against civilians.

As the situation continues to deteriorate, the urgency for a coherent international response grows. Humanitarian aid organizations stress the need for unimpeded access to resources and support for the affected populations. The lack of decisive action raises questions about the complicity of nations providing military support and political cover to Israel.

The voices of those suffering in Gaza, including families displaced by the violence, emphasize the need for the world to recognize the reality on the ground. Their words serve as a call to action for greater awareness and intervention to prevent further loss of life and to address the profound humanitarian crisis unfolding in the region.