According to Netanyahu, Israel’s goals include stripping the enclave of weapons, keeping the Israeli military in control of overall security, and eventually handing administrative responsibilities to a civilian body that is not Israeli. Netanyahu has come under intensifying pressure as his plan to seize Gaza City drew criticism from across the political spectrum and mass protests in Israeli cities, while Gaza’s Health Ministry reported rising malnutrition deaths. Netanyahu went on to place blame on Hamas for the dire humanitarian situation, including civilian casualties, widespread destruction, and limited access to aid. He claimed Hamas still has “thousands of armed fighters” in Gaza and said many Palestinians are “pleading” for liberation from the group’s control. Netanyahu’s remarks came just two days after Israel’s Security Cabinet approved a plan authorizing the military to take control of Gaza City — a decision that has drawn sharp criticism both domestically and abroad.