Post Reports: Netanyahu’s Plan to Take Over Gaza City

Hosted by: Colby Ikowicz
Date Released: August 12, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of Post Reports, Colby Ikowicz delves into Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's controversial plan to take control of Gaza City. Hosted by The Washington Post, the podcast features an in-depth interview with Shira Rubin, a reporter based in Tel Aviv, who provides expert analysis on the plan's implications both locally and internationally.

Netanyahu's Plan Unveiled

At the outset, former Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced Israel’s intent to dismantle the remaining Hamas strongholds in Gaza City and the central camps.
Netanyahu (00:23): “Israel's security cabinet instructed the IDF to dismantle the two remaining Hamas strongholds in Gaza City and the central camps. Contrary to false claims, this is the best way to end the war and the best way to end it speedily.”

This decision represents a significant tactical shift, as the Israeli military currently controls about 75% of the Gaza Strip. The move aims for a phased military takeover of the entire enclave, raising fears of increased Palestinian civilian casualties and further jeopardizing Israeli hostages.

Details of the Approved Plan

Colby Ikowicz (01:45): "What is in this plan that was approved last week by Israel's security cabinet?"

Shira Rubin (01:57):
The plan permits Netanyahu to take control and hold Gaza City, the largest city in Gaza. This includes extending control to central Gaza areas and tent camps established over the past two years. However, the plan lacks specific details on execution timelines, with military officials predicting a logistical and strategic lag of at least two months before implementation. This delay could serve as leverage for Netanyahu in negotiations with Hamas for a ceasefire.

Necessity for Civilian Evacuation

Colby Ikowicz (03:24): "Why would they have to evacuate all the civilians from Gaza City?"

Shira Rubin (03:29):
Israel's strategy involves intensive urban warfare, which inherently puts civilians at risk. The plan likely necessitates the evacuation of nearly a million Gaza City residents to minimize civilian casualties during military operations.

Difference from Current Occupation

Colby Ikowicz (04:09): "How is Netanyahu's proposal different from the current situation Palestinians face?"

Shira Rubin (04:23):
Currently, Israel has installations and no-go zones within Gaza but has not maintained a permanent presence in Gaza City. Previous operations were limited in scope and duration, without intentions to hold and administer the area long-term. Netanyahu's plan shifts from temporary strikes to a sustained occupation, raising the stakes for both military strategy and civilian safety.

Internal Israeli Politics Driving the Plan

Colby Ikowicz (06:02): "What are the internal politics of Israel's government that got us to this stage?"

Shira Rubin (06:09):
Critics argue that Netanyahu transformed the conflict into a political maneuver to satisfy his far-right coalition partners, who demand the occupation and potential resettlement of Gaza by Jewish populations. These partners have threatened to dissolve the government if their demands are unmet, compelling Netanyahu to adopt a more aggressive stance despite widespread opposition within Israel.

Public Reaction in Israel

Colby Ikowicz (09:48): "What has been the reaction from the general public in Israel?"

Shira Rubin (09:48):
The majority of Israelis oppose the plan, viewing it as ineffective in achieving its primary goal of hostage release and as a prolongation of the war. Public dissent is growing, with protests highlighting the populace's dissatisfaction and urging the government to prioritize ceasefire negotiations over military expansion.

Notable Protest Voices (10:26):
“Why are they still being held in Gaza? Bring them home. We will not accept a government that abandons its people.”

Risks to Hostages

Colby Ikowicz (11:22): "Could the hostages be harmed if Israel launches a more aggressive assault?"

Shira Rubin (11:22):
There are approximately 50 hostages in Gaza, with intelligence suggesting a significant number are still alive. Israeli military actions, especially intensified ones, could endanger these hostages further. Historical precedents indicate that Hamas may retaliate by harming hostages in response to Israeli proximity or threats.

Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza

Colby Ikowicz (18:21): "How did the humanitarian crisis in Gaza escalate?"

Shira Rubin (18:41):
Since the war’s inception in 2023, civilian casualties have surged, exacerbated by severe restrictions on humanitarian aid and food supplies imposed by Israel. This has led to widespread malnutrition and starvation among Gaza’s population, with limited access to essential resources despite aid efforts.

International Response to the Plan

Colby Ikowicz (24:46): "What has been the international response to Israel's plan?"

Shira Rubin (24:46):
The global community, excluding former President Donald Trump, has largely condemned Israel’s proposal. Countries such as the United Kingdom, France, Denmark, Greece, and Slovenia have called for urgent Security Council meetings to address the situation, labeling the plan as a disaster that endangers Palestinian civilians and hostages alike. Germany has even considered imposing an arms embargo on weapons that could be used in Gaza.

Notable International Condemnation (25:05):
“They condemn the government of Israel's decision to further expand its military operations in Gaza... It will only endanger the lives of all civilians in Gaza.”

Impact of International Pressure

Colby Ikowicz (26:35): "Will international pressure influence Netanyahu's decision?"

Shira Rubin (26:35):
International pressure appears to have little effect on Netanyahu, who perceives it as evidence of global misunderstanding and hypocrisy regarding Israel's security challenges. Instead of deterring him, such criticism may reinforce his resolve to proceed with the plan as a stance of defiance against perceived external adversities.

U.S. Stance on the Conflict

Colby Ikowicz (27:34): "Where does the U.S. stand in all of this?"

Shira Rubin (27:50):
President Trump has been notably silent in international condemnations of Israel’s plan. However, his administration has influenced Israel to pivot strategies, pushing for actions beyond the status quo of humanitarian crises in Gaza. Netanyahu's aggressive plans are partly a response to this shift, aiming to address the exigent demands for change instigated by the Trump-era policies.

Conclusion

The episode underscores the complexity of Netanyahu’s plan to take over Gaza City, highlighting the intricate interplay between military strategy, political maneuvering, public dissent, humanitarian concerns, and international diplomacy. As the situation evolves, the Israeli government's actions remain a focal point of both domestic and global scrutiny, with significant implications for regional stability and human lives.

Notable Quotes:

• Benjamin Netanyahu (00:23): “Contrary to false claims, this is the best way to end the war and the best way to end it speedily.”

• Shira Rubin (06:09): “Critics say Netanyahu chose not to sign a deal that would end the warfare and release the hostages because of extremist coalition partners.”

• Shira Rubin (09:48): “The vast majority does not accept this plan. They do not see it as putting military pressure that will convince Hamas to release the hostages...”

• Shira Rubin (11:22): “Any Israeli operation that will happen even above ground will endanger the hostages who are being held below ground.”

• Shira Rubin (24:46): “Most world leaders, except for President Trump, have said that this is a disaster.”

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