Netanyahu’s Billion-Shekel Gaza Plan Sparks Military Backlash, Political Firestorm
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is pushing to expedite the construction of a costly “humanitarian city” in Gaza, despite military warnings of a lengthy timeline and potential risks to hostage talks. The plan, debated amid rising tensions, reflects efforts to address Gaza’s crisis while maintaining the option for renewed military action.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu clashed with military officials last night during a heated cabinet meeting over the timeline for constructing a proposed "humanitarian city" in southern Gaza, a project estimated to cost tens of billions of shekels. According to IDF Radio, the military projected the construction would take over a year, challenging earlier estimates of a six-month completion. Netanyahu, backed by several ministers, demanded a significant acceleration of the timeline, emphasizing the urgency of establishing the city to address Gaza’s humanitarian crisis, where 1.8 million residents face acute food and fuel shortages following Israel’s blockade and ongoing war. The initiative, part of a broader US-backed ceasefire proposal, aims to provide shelter and aid to displaced Palestinians while maintaining Israel’s security oversight.
Netanyahu underscored his commitment to a ceasefire and hostage release deal, stating, “I wish to lead to a ceasefire agreement and a deal with the relevant parties,” but warned, “fighting could resume if necessary after the ceasefire if operational conditions require it.” The debate highlighted tensions between political and military echelons, with the IDF cautioning that the project could disrupt delicate hostage negotiations with Hamas, which holds 50 captives. Posts on X reflected skepticism, with one user noting, “Netanyahu’s ‘humanitarian city’ sounds like a PR stunt to dodge ceasefire pressure.” The plan, initially floated in May 2025, has faced criticism from far-right coalition members like Itamar Ben Gvir, who oppose any aid facilitating Hamas’s control, arguing it undermines Israel’s goal of dismantling the group.
The humanitarian city proposal aligns with recent Israeli efforts to enhance aid, including upgraded food baskets with cookies and chocolates, though diverting IDF resources to secure distribution routes has sparked controversy. The project underscores Israel’s challenge of balancing humanitarian obligations with its campaign against Hamas, amid international calls for a permanent truce.