Israeli Government and Military Clash Over Controversial Gaza Camp Proposal

A significant rift has emerged between the Israeli government and its military high command concerning the contentious plan for a ‘humanitarian city’ to house Palestinians in southern Gaza. The project’s substantial cost and potential impact have become a major point of contention, while former Prime Minister Ehud Olmert has drawn sharp criticism for likening the proposed camp to a ‘concentration camp,’ a comparison fiercely denounced within Israel.

This ‘humanitarian city’ initiative is reportedly a key sticking point in ongoing ceasefire negotiations with Hamas. Israel aims to maintain a troop presence across large sections of Gaza, including the ruins of Rafah, where Defense Minister Israel Katz intends for the camp to be constructed. Hamas, conversely, is pushing for a more comprehensive Israeli withdrawal, with senior member Husam Badran labeling the camp plans as a ‘deliberately obstructive demand’ that complicates talks, likening it to an ‘isolated city that resembles a ghetto,’ and deeming it ‘utterly unacceptable.’

Defense Minister Katz, who ordered the army to draft plans for the camp last week, envisions Palestinians being concentrated in an area between the Egyptian border and the Israeli military’s ‘Morag corridor.’ Initially, 600,000 people would relocate there, with the ultimate goal of housing Gaza’s entire population. Those inside would reportedly only be permitted to leave for another country. The plan, unveiled during Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s visit to Washington DC and reportedly having his backing, immediately triggered alarm among international allies, including the UK, and domestically.

The military, despite following orders to prepare plans, has expressed opposition. Tensions flared publicly during a recent security cabinet meeting where IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir reportedly clashed with Netanyahu. Zamir argued the project would divert critical funds and resources, hindering military operations and hostage rescue efforts. Netanyahu reportedly criticized Zamir’s presented plans as ‘too expensive and too slow,’ demanding a cheaper, faster timeline by Tuesday. Finance Ministry officials also raised objections, citing an estimated annual cost of 15 billion shekels (£3.3bn), a significant drain on the state budget, likely to be borne by Israeli taxpayers.

The dispute unfolds as Israeli strikes across Gaza continue, with local hospitals reporting at least 31 fatalities. Concurrently, UN agencies providing essential services, including food and healthcare, have warned they may be forced to halt operations entirely due to critical fuel shortages, impacting hospitals, transportation, water, sanitation, and food production.

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