Israeli government response to the October 7 attacks

The Israeli government faced criticism after it was revealed intelligence agencies had been aware of an attack plan for over a year.{{cite news |last1=Bergman |first1=Ronen |title=Israel Knew Hamas's Attack Plan More Than a Year Ago |work=The New York Times |date=December 2023 |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2023/11/30/world/middleeast/israel-hamas-attack-intelligence.html |access-date=10 December 2023}} Yair Lapid, a centrist Israeli politician, called the failure of the government and intelligence agencies to prevent the attack an "unpardonable failure".{{cite web |title=Israeli opposition leader calls on PM to step down |url=https://aje.io/s017rg?update=2563223 |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=18 December 2023}} Netanyahu blamed Israel's intelligence chiefs.{{cite web |title=Netanyahu slammed for post blaming intelligence chiefs for Oct. 7 failure; apologizes |url=https://www.timesofisrael.com/netanyahu-sharply-criticized-for-post-blaming-intelligence-chiefs-for-oct-7-failure/#:~:text=Netanyahu%27s%20statement%2C%20seeming%20to%20place,from%20within%20his%20emergency%20government. |website=The Times of Israel |access-date=18 December 2023}}

Egypt said it warned Israel days before the attack, "an explosion of the situation is coming, and very soon, and it would be big".{{cite news |title=Egypt intelligence official says Israel ignored repeated warnings of 'something big' |url=https://www.timesofisrael.com/egypt-intelligence-official-says-israel-ignored-repeated-warnings-of-something-big/ |access-date=9 October 2023 |work=The Times of Israel |agency=Associated Press |date=9 October 2023 |archive-date=9 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231009113011/https://www.timesofisrael.com/egypt-intelligence-official-says-israel-ignored-repeated-warnings-of-something-big/ |url-status=live}} Israel denied receiving such a warning,{{cite news |url=https://www.haaretz.com/israel-news/2023-10-13/ty-article/.premium/israels-national-security-adviser-denies-receiving-egyptian-warning-of-hamas-attack/0000018b-28c9-d1bc-a58b-69ef2ed70000 |title='Utterly Fake': Israel's National Security Adviser Denies Receiving Egyptian Warning of Hamas Attack |first=Jonathan |last=Lis |work=Haaretz |url-access=subscription|date=13 October 2023 |access-date=18 October 2023 |archive-date=13 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231013215956/https://www.haaretz.com/israel-news/2023-10-13/ty-article/.premium/israels-national-security-adviser-denies-receiving-egyptian-warning-of-hamas-attack/0000018b-28c9-d1bc-a58b-69ef2ed70000 |url-status=live}} but the Egyptian statement was corroborated by Michael McCaul, Chairman of the US House Foreign Relations Committee, who said warnings were made three days before the attack.{{cite news |title=Senior US lawmaker says Egypt warned Israel 3 days before onslaught |url=https://www.timesofisrael.com/liveblog_entry/senior-us-lawmaker-says-egypt-warned-israel-3-days-before-onslaught/ |access-date=11 October 2023 |work=The Times of Israel |agency=Agence France-Presse |date=11 October 2023 |archive-date=11 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231011163145/https://www.timesofisrael.com/liveblog_entry/senior-us-lawmaker-says-egypt-warned-israel-3-days-before-onslaught/ |url-status=live}}

Israeli intelligence officials initially stated that they had no warnings or indications of the 7 October attack by Hamas, despite Israel exercising extensive monitoring over Gaza.{{cite news |title=Hamas Attack Raises Questions Over an Israeli Intelligence Failure |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2023/10/08/us/politics/israel-hamas-intelligence.html |access-date=24 November 2023 |work=The New York Times |date=8 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231008234117/https://www.nytimes.com/2023/10/08/us/politics/israel-hamas-intelligence.html |archive-date=8 October 2023 |language=en}} Furthermore, the United States warned the Israeli government of the possibility of a surprise attack from Hamas a few days before the incident.{{cite news |title=US intelligence warned of the potential for violence days before Hamas attack |url=https://edition.cnn.com/2023/10/13/politics/us-intelligence-warnings-potential-gaza-clash-days-before-attack/index.html |access-date=27 November 2023 |work=CNN |date=13 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231122212221/https://edition.cnn.com/2023/10/13/politics/us-intelligence-warnings-potential-gaza-clash-days-before-attack/index.html |archive-date=22 November 2023 |location=Washington |language=en}} In July 2023, a member of the Israeli signals intelligence unit alerted her superiors that Hamas was conducting preparations for the assault, saying that "I utterly refute that the scenario is imaginary". An Israeli colonel ignored her concerns.{{cite news |last1=Bergman |first1=Ronen |last2=Goldman |first2=Adam |title=Israel Knew Hamas's Attack Plan Over a Year Ago |work=The New York Times |date=1 December 2023 |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2023/11/30/world/middleeast/israel-hamas-attack-intelligence.html?campaign_id=307&emc=edit_igwb_20231201&instance_id=109019&nl=israel-hamas-war-briefing®i_id=64680187&segment_id=151409&te=1&user_id=1e9c9142246ac5796beabc2f49486341 |access-date=1 December 2023 |archive-date=6 December 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231206180618/https://www.nytimes.com/2023/11/30/world/middleeast/israel-hamas-attack-intelligence.html?campaign_id=307&emc=edit_igwb_20231201&instance_id=109019&nl=israel-hamas-war-briefing®i_id=64680187&segment_id=151409&te=1&user_id=1e9c9142246ac5796beabc2f49486341 |url-status=live}} According to the Financial Times, alerts from the signals unit were ignored because they came from lower-ranking soldiers, contradicted the belief that Hamas was contained by Israel's blockade of the Gaza Strip, bombing, and placation via aid, and the belief that Hamas was seeking to avoid a full war.{{cite news |last=Srivastava |first=Mehul |date=23 November 2023 |title=Israeli intelligence 'dismissed' detailed warning of Hamas raid |work=The Financial Times |url=https://www.ft.com/content/277573ae-fbbc-4396-8faf-64b73ab8ed0a |access-date=24 November 2023 |archive-date=24 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231124204856/https://www.ft.com/content/277573ae-fbbc-4396-8faf-64b73ab8ed0a |url-status=live}}{{cite news |last1=Dettmer |first1=Jamie |title=Our warnings on Hamas were ignored, Israel's women border troops say |url=https://www.politico.eu/article/israel-border-troops-women-hamas-warnings-war-october-7-benjamin-netanyahu/ |access-date=24 November 2023 |work=Politico |date=21 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231122015508/https://www.politico.eu/article/israel-border-troops-women-hamas-warnings-war-october-7-benjamin-netanyahu/ |archive-date=22 November 2023 |language=en}}

The Israeli military faced criticism for its handling of the initial 7 October attack. According to Haaretz's journalist Josh Breiner, a police source said that a police investigation indicated an IDF helicopter which had fired on Hamas militants "apparently also hit some festival participants" in Re'im music festival.{{cite news |url=https://www.ynet.co.il/news/article/b111niukzt |title=הטעיה של חמאס למסוקי צה"ל והכוונת טייסים בוואטסאפ |trans-title=Hamas deception of IDF helicopters |language=he |publisher=YNET |access-date=13 November 2023 |archive-date=13 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231113050601/https://www.ynet.co.il/news/article/b111niukzt |url-status=live}} The Israeli police denied the Haaretz report{{cite web |title=Israel Police slams 'Haaretz' claim IDF helicopter may have harmed civilians on Oct. 7 |work=The Times of Israel |date=19 November 2023 |url=https://www.timesofisrael.com/liveblog_entry/israel-police-slams-haaretz-claim-idf-helicopter-may-have-harmed-civilians-on-oct-7/ |access-date=19 November 2023}} and said they found no evidence of civilian harm resulting from the aerial activities at that location.{{cite news |last=Breiner |first=Josh |date=November 18, 2023 |title=Israeli Security Establishment: Hamas Likely Didn't Have Advance Knowledge of Nova Festival |url=https://www.haaretz.com/israel-news/2023-11-18/ty-article/.premium/israeli-security-establishment-hamas-likely-didnt-have-prior-knowledge-of-nova-festival/0000018b-e2ee-d168-a3ef-f7fe8ca20000 |access-date=November 19, 2023 |work=Haaretz |quote=According to a police source, the investigation also indicates that an IDF combat helicopter that arrived to the scene and fired at terrorists there apparently also hit some festival participants.}}

A New York Times analysis described the Israeli military response on 7 October as "poorly organized", with soldiers operating without a response plan or training and "making it up as they went along".{{cite news |last1=Goldman |first1=Adam |last2=Bergman |first2=Ronen |last3=Mazzetti |first3=Mark |last4=Odenheimer |first4=Natan |last5=Cardia |first5=Alexander |last6=Tiefenthäler |first6=Ainara |last7=Frenkel |first7=Sheera |title=Where Was the Israeli Military? |work=The New York Times |date=30 December 2023 |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2023/12/30/world/middleeast/israeli-military-hamas-failures.html |access-date=30 December 2023}} On 31 December, Eli Cohen told Maariv that the Israeli government bore responsibility for the 7 October attack and an investigation committee was needed to hold those negligent accountable.{{cite web |title=Big Rift In Netanyahu Govt; Israeli Foreign Minister Demands Probe Into Hamas' Oct. 7 Attack |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/videos/world-news/big-rift-in-netanyahu-govt-israeli-foreign-minister-demands-probe-into-hamas-oct-7-attack-101704025906085.html |website=The Hindustan |date=31 December 2023 |access-date=31 December 2023}} The Haaretz editorial board further called for an investigation into reported Israeli tank fire at Be'eri on 7 October.{{cite web |title=Haaretz calls for probe into Israeli tank fire during October 7 attack |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2024/1/8/israel-war-on-gaza-world-must-look-says-wael-dahdouh-as-son-killed?update=2605143 |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=8 January 2024}} Ynet reported soldiers were told to stop militants from returning to Gaza "at all costs", despite fears that many were holding Israeli hostages as they fled.{{cite news |last1=זיתון |first1=יואב |title=ההוראה: למנוע ממחבלים לחזור לעזה "בכל מחיר", גם אם יש איתם חטופים |url=https://www.ynet.co.il/news/article/yokra13754368 |newspaper=Ynet |date=10 January 2024 |language=he |access-date=14 January 2024}}

In response to reports that Israeli soldiers had been instructed to follow the Hannibal Directive, an IDF policy to kill Israeli soldiers before allowing them to be taken hostage, Asa Kasher, the author of the IDF Code of Conduct, called for an investigation, stating "There is absolutely nothing to allow someone to kill an Israeli citizen, in uniform or not".{{cite web |last1=Fink |first1=Rachel |title='Unlawful, Unethical, Horrifying': IDF Ethics Code Author on Alleged Use of 'Hannibal Directive' During Hamas Attack |url=https://www.haaretz.com/israel-news/2024-01-17/ty-article/.premium/unlawful-unethical-horrifying-idf-ethics-expert-on-controversial-hannibal-directive/0000018d-186c-dd75-addd-faedd2b80000 |website=Haaretz |access-date=22 January 2024}} On 6 February 2024, the Israeli military stated it would be opening an investigation into whether Israeli civilians were killed by the Israeli military on 7 October.{{cite web |title=Israeli military to probe reports that some Israeli civilians killed by fire from own forces on October 7 |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2024/2/6/israels-war-on-gaza-live-staggering-destruction-in-north-gaza-unrwa?update=2684733 |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=7 February 2024}}

A July 2024 Haaretz investigation revealed that the IDF ordered the Hannibal Directive to be used, adding: "Haaretz does not know whether or how many civilians and soldiers were hit due to these procedures, but the cumulative data indicates that many of the kidnapped people were at risk, exposed to Israeli gunfire, even if they were not the target."{{Cite news |last=Yaniv |first=Kubovich |date=7 July 2024 |title=IDF Ordered Hannibal Directive on October 7 to Prevent Hamas Taking Soldiers Captive |url=https://www.haaretz.com/israel-news/2024-07-07/ty-article-magazine/.premium/idf-ordered-hannibal-directive-on-october-7-to-prevent-hamas-taking-soldiers-captive/00000190-89a2-d776-a3b1-fdbe45520000 |access-date= |work=Haaretz}} One of these decisions was made at 7:18 A.M., when an observation post reported someone had been kidnapped at the Erez crossing, close to the IDF's liaison office. "Hannibal at Erez" came the command from divisional headquarters, "dispatch a Zik." The Zik is an unmanned assault drone, and the meaning of this command was clear, Haaretz reported.

A source in the Southern Command of the IDF told Haaretz: "Everyone knew by then that such vehicles could be carrying kidnapped civilians or soldiers...There was no case in which a vehicle carrying kidnapped people was knowingly attacked, but you couldn't really know if there were any such people in a vehicle. I can't say there was a clear instruction, but everyone knew what it meant to not let any vehicles return to Gaza." The same source stated that on 2:00 P.M. a new instruction was given that "was meant to turn the area around the border fence into a killing zone, closing it off toward the west."

Haaretz further reported that at 6:40 P.M. military intelligence believed militants were intending to flee back to Gaza in an organized manner from near Kibbutz Be'eri, Kfar Azza and Kissufim. In response the army launched artillery at the border fence area, very close to some of these communities. Shells were also fired at the Erez border crossing shortly thereafter. The IDF says it is not aware of any civilians being hurt in these bombardments.

Haaretz notes one case in which it is known that civilians were hit, which took place in the house of Pessi Cohen at Kibbutz Be'eri. 14 hostages were in the house as the IDF attacked it, with 13 of them killed.

A September 2024 report by ABC News (Australia) also covered the use of the Hannibal Directive in the initial Israeli response.{{Cite news |date=2024-09-06 |title=Israel accused of killing its own civilians under the 'Hannibal Directive' to avoid them being taken hostage |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-09-07/israel-hannibal-directive-kidnap-hamas-gaza-hostages-idf/104224430 |access-date=2024-09-08 |work=ABC News |language=en-AU}} The report quotes former Israeli officer, Air Force Colonel Nof Erez as saying: "This was a mass Hannibal. It was tons and tons of openings in the fence, and thousands of people in every type of vehicle, some with hostages and some without." ABC News adds that it was not only soldiers but also Israeli civilians who were targeted, citing testimonies from two incidents at Kibbutz Be'eri and Nir Oz.

Six months later the Israeli military released a review exonerating itself, but ABC News notes that it left many at Kibbutz Be'eri unsatisfied and contradicts the testimony from one of the survivors, Yasmin Porat, "who told Israel's Kan radio on October 15 that Hamas gunmen had not threatened the hostages and instead intended to negotiate with police for their safe return to Gaza. She said an Israeli police special unit had started the gun battle by firing upon the house, catching "five or six" kibbutz residents outside in "very, very heavy crossfire". In the interview, she was asked: "So our forces may have shot them?" "Undoubtedly," she replied."

• 06:30: Air raid sirens were activated in southern and central Israel in response to Hamas missiles.{{cite news|title=Mapping major events in the Israel-Palestine war|url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/longform/2023/10/17/mapping-the-israel-palestine-war-major-events-on-the-ground|publisher=Al Jazeera |access-date=October 24, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231024133858/https://www.aljazeera.com/news/longform/2023/10/17/mapping-the-israel-palestine-war-major-events-on-the-ground |archive-date=October 24, 2023|date=October 23, 2023 |url-status=live}}
• 07:40: The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed Hamas militants had entered southern Israel and asked residents of Sderot and other cities to remain indoors.{{cite news|url=https://www.cnn.com/europe/live-news/israel-hamas-war-gaza-news-10-23-23/h_38678b715d6ed9c116dd0b92c9f900b8|title=Gaza has received tiny percentage of the amount of aid it normally gets daily since October 7|first=Kathleen|last=Magramo|date=October 23, 2023|publisher=CNN|access-date=October 23, 2023|archive-date=October 23, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231023195630/https://www.cnn.com/europe/live-news/israel-hamas-war-gaza-news-10-23-23/h_38678b715d6ed9c116dd0b92c9f900b8|url-status=live}}
• 08:15: Sirens were activated in Jerusalem following a rocket barrage that landed on the city's western edge.
• 08:23: Israel declared a state of alert for war, activating its reservists, in response to continued rocket attacks.
• 08:34: Israel announced that it had begun counteroffensive operations against Hamas.
• 10:47: The Israeli Air Force (IAF) began attacking Gaza.
• 11:35: Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made his first statement, declaring that Israel was at war.{{cite tweet|last1=Netanyahu|first1=Benjamin|user=netanyahu|number=1710574677385445775|date=October 7, 2023 |script-title=he:אנחנו במלחמה.|language=he |trans-title=We are at war. |access-date=October 9, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231009123449/https://twitter.com/netanyahu/status/1710574677385445775 |archive-date=October 9, 2023 |url-status=live}}
• 12:21: The IDF began operations to relieve cities in southern Israel as the number of rockets launched from Gaza increased to over 1,200.
• 18:00: The Israeli security cabinet said on 8 October that a state of war had officially begun at this time.{{Cite web|url=https://allisrael.com/brief/israel-s-security-cabinet-officially-declares-state-of-war|title=Israel's security cabinet officially declares state of war, approves emergency measures|date=October 13, 2023|website=All Israel News}}

{{main|Israeli war cabinet}}

File:Isaac Herzog at Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Israel, November 2023 (GPOABG 8554).jpg with Eli Cohen.]]

The formation of the war cabinet was approved by the Knesset on 12 October.{{cite web|url=https://www.timesofisrael.com/knesset-okays-war-cabinet-pm-saturday-most-horrible-day-for-jews-since-holocaust/|title=Knesset okays war cabinet; PM: Saturday 'most horrible day for Jews since Holocaust'|work=The Times of Israel|date=12 October 2023|accessdate=12 October 2023|author=Carrie Keller-Lynn|archive-date=12 October 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231012222230/https://www.timesofisrael.com/knesset-okays-war-cabinet-pm-saturday-most-horrible-day-for-jews-since-holocaust/|url-status=live}} The composition of the preexisting government was modified: MKs voted, 66–4, to approve the addition of five National Unity ministers (Gantz, Gadi Eisenkot, Gideon Sa'ar, Hili Tropper, and Yifat Shasha-Biton) to the government as ministers without portfolio, and unanimously voted to remove the health portfolio from Interior Minister Moshe Arbel and elevate Uriel Buso of the Shas party to the post of health minister.

As part of the deal, Netanyahu and Gantz also agreed to freeze all new non-war, non-emergency legislation, including the highly controversial judicial overhaul legislation, and agreed that the war cabinet would meet at least once every 48 hours. The war cabinet has the authority to "update, as necessary, military and strategic aims for the conflict" but its decisions are subject to approval from the Security Cabinet of Israel.{{cite web|url=https://www.timesofisrael.com/gallant-vows-to-wipe-hamas-from-earth-after-the-worst-terror-attack-in-history/|title=Gallant vows to 'wipe Hamas from earth,' after 'the worst terror attack' in history|work=The Times of Israel|first=Carrie|last=Keller-Lynn|date=12 October 2023|accessdate=12 October 2023|archive-date=12 October 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231012001836/https://www.timesofisrael.com/gallant-vows-to-wipe-hamas-from-earth-after-the-worst-terror-attack-in-history/|url-status=live}}

On 16 October, Netanyahu's Likud party announced that Yisrael Beytenu, led by Avigdor Lieberman, had agreed to join the emergency government. However, later the same day, Lieberman denied reaching an agreement with the government, saying that the offer to join the Security Cabinet was insufficient. Lieberman said that he wanted a seat on the smaller war cabinet instead. He said his party would "continue to support the government's actions that are meant to eliminate Hamas and Hamas leaders" but that he had "no intention of being the 38th minister in the government and be used as a fig leaf."{{cite web|first=Carrie|last=Keller-Lynn|url=https://www.timesofisrael.com/liveblog_entry/liberman-denies-agreeing-to-join-government-demands-spot-on-war-cabinet-as-condition/|title=Liberman denies agreeing to join government, demands spot on war cabinet as condition|work=The Times of Israel|date=14 October 2023|access-date=20 October 2023|archive-date=14 October 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231014185929/https://www.timesofisrael.com/liveblog_entry/liberman-denies-agreeing-to-join-government-demands-spot-on-war-cabinet-as-condition/|url-status=live}}

In January 2024, the war cabinet's budget accounted for increases in military spending by cutting funding initially allocated for the development of Palestinian communities.{{cite web |title=Cutting Budgets, Netanyahu and Smotrich to Arab-Israelis: Drop Dead |url=https://www.haaretz.com/opinion/editorial/2024-01-15/ty-article/.premium/cutting-budgets-netanyahu-and-smotrich-to-arab-israelis-drop-dead/0000018d-0997-d71c-ad9f-4b97d8bf0000 |website=Haaretz |access-date=22 January 2024}}

{{main|Israeli invasion of the Gaza Strip (2023–present)|Gaza humanitarian crisis (2023–present)}}

File:כוחות צהל מתכוננים לכניסה לעזה צילום יואב קרן.jpg

On the evening of 27 October 2023, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) launched a large-scale invasion{{Cite web|url=https://apnews.com/article/israel-gaza-ground-operation-invasion-6ba5bf06f81c315252a9e53735f3de47|title=Has Israel invaded Gaza? The military has been vague, even if its objectives are clear|date=31 October 2023|website=Associated Press|access-date=2 November 2023|archive-date=1 November 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231101193534/https://apnews.com/article/israel-gaza-ground-operation-invasion-6ba5bf06f81c315252a9e53735f3de47|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2023/11/01/world/middleeast/israel-ground-invasion-gaza-soldiers.html|title=Israel Confirms Deaths of 15 Soldiers in Ground Invasion of Gaza|first=Aaron|last=Boxerman|date=1 November 2023|work=The New York Times|access-date=2 November 2023|archive-date=2 November 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231102145125/https://www.nytimes.com/2023/11/01/world/middleeast/israel-ground-invasion-gaza-soldiers.html|url-status=live}} inside the Gaza Strip, as part of the Gaza war, with the stated goal of destroying Hamas and overthrowing the organization's governance of the Gaza Strip.{{cite web|url=https://www.timesofisrael.com/idf-soldiers-fend-off-nighttime-hamas-ambush-as-battalion-commander-killed-in-gaza/|title=IDF soldiers fend off nighttime Hamas ambush, as battalion commander killed in Gaza|work=The Times of Israel|date=3 November 2023|first1=Emanuel|last1=Fabian|first2=Michael|last2=Bachner|archive-date=2 November 2023|access-date=3 November 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231102185204/https://www.timesofisrael.com/idf-soldiers-fend-off-nighttime-hamas-ambush-as-battalion-commander-killed-in-gaza/|url-status=live}} At the start of the war, Israel implemented a complete blockade on the Gaza Strip, which has resulted in significant shortages of fuel, food, medication, water, and essential medical supplies.{{cite web |last1=Ioanes |first1=Ellen |title=Gaza's spiraling humanitarian crisis, explained |url=https://www.vox.com/2023/10/14/23917260/israel-hamas-war-gaza-humanitarian-crisis |work=Vox |date=14 October 2023 |access-date=16 October 2023 |archive-date=14 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231014224531/https://www.vox.com/2023/10/14/23917260/israel-hamas-war-gaza-humanitarian-crisis |url-status=live }}{{cite web |last1=Gottbrath |first1=Laurin-Whitney |title=Gaza "fast becoming hell hole" on "brink of collapse" amid Israel strikes: UN |url=https://www.axios.com/2023/10/14/gaza-humanitarian-crisis-hamas-israel-war-death-toll |work=Axios |date=14 October 2023 |access-date=16 October 2023 |archive-date=16 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231016101000/https://www.axios.com/2023/10/14/gaza-humanitarian-crisis-hamas-israel-war-death-toll |url-status=live }} This siege resulted in a 90% drop in electricity availability, impacting hospital power supplies, sewage plants, and shutting down the desalination plants that provide drinking water.{{cite news |last1=Mellen |first1=Ruby |last2=Chen |first2=Szu Yu |title=See how Israel's siege has plunged Gaza into darkness and isolation |newspaper=The Washington Post |date=26 October 2023 |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2023/10/26/gaza-israel-siege-blackout-isolation/ |access-date=27 October 2023 |archive-date=27 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231027220800/https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2023/10/26/gaza-israel-siege-blackout-isolation/ |url-status=live }} Widespread disease outbreaks have spread across Gaza.{{cite news |last1=Marsi |first1=Federica |title=Gaza doctors warn of a humanitarian catastrophe after Israeli attacks |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/10/14/supplies-exhausted-doctors-exhausted-in-gaza-catastrophe-looms-large |publisher=Al Jazeera |date=14 October 2023 |access-date=25 October 2023 |archive-date=14 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231014174402/https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/10/14/supplies-exhausted-doctors-exhausted-in-gaza-catastrophe-looms-large |url-status=live }} Heavy bombardment by Israeli airstrikes caused catastrophic damage to Gaza's infrastructure, further deepening the humanitarian crisis.{{cite web|url= https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/gaza-war-inflicts-catastrophic-damage-infrastructure-economy-2023-11-17/ | title= Gaza war inflicts catastrophic damage on infrastructure and economy =21 November 2023|work=Reuters}}

{{main|War crimes in the 2023 Israel–Hamas war#By the Israeli government}}

Numerous charges of war crimes have been levied against the Israeli government for its military actions against civilians. These charges have come from Human Rights Watch, Amnesty International, B'tselem, and human rights groups and experts, including UN rapporteurs.{{multiref|{{cite web|title=Israel/Palestine: Devastating Civilian Toll as Parties Flout Legal Obligations|url=https://www.hrw.org/news/2023/10/09/israel/palestine-devastating-civilian-toll-parties-flout-legal-obligations|website=Human Rights Watch|date=9 October 2023|access-date=13 October 2023|archive-date=9 October 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231009202840/https://www.hrw.org/news/2023/10/09/israel/palestine-devastating-civilian-toll-parties-flout-legal-obligations|url-status=live}}|{{cite web|title=Revenge policy in motion; Israel committing war crimes in Gaza|url=https://www.btselem.org/press_releases/20231010_revenge_policy_in_motion_israel_committing_war_crimes_in_gaza|website=B'tselem|access-date=12 October 2023|archive-date=22 October 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231022010521/https://www.btselem.org/press_releases/20231010_revenge_policy_in_motion_israel_committing_war_crimes_in_gaza|url-status=live}}|{{cite news|last1=Robertson|first1=Nick|title=UN experts condemn attacks on civilians in Israel, Gaza as 'war crimes'|url=https://thehill.com/policy/international/4251899-un-civilians-israel-gaza-war-crimes/|work=The Hill|access-date=12 October 2023|archive-date=12 October 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231012140640/https://thehill.com/policy/international/4251899-un-civilians-israel-gaza-war-crimes/|url-status=live}}|{{cite news|last1=Speri|first1=Alice|title=Israel Responds to Hamas Crimes by Ordering Mass War Crimes in Gaza|url=https://theintercept.com/2023/10/09/israel-hamas-war-crimes-palestinians/|work=The Intercept|access-date=12 October 2023|archive-date=22 October 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231022010546/https://theintercept.com/2023/10/09/israel-hamas-war-crimes-palestinians/|url-status=live}}}}

{{main|Allegations of genocide in the 2023 Israeli attack on Gaza}}

{{further|South Africa v. Israel (Genocide Convention)}}

Israel was accused of committing a genocide against Palestinians in the Gaza Strip. South Africa brought the government of Israel to the International Court of Justice, alleging it was committing acts of genocide in its campaign in Gaza.{{cite web |last1=Cotterill |first1=Joseph |title=S Africa accuses Israel of breaking international laws on genocide in Gaza |url=https://www.ft.com/content/297e42d9-2f19-472e-b276-d8e4af48c3b0 |website=Financial Times |date=29 December 2023 |access-date=7 January 2024}}{{cite web |last1=Corder |first1=Mike |title=Read the full application bringing genocide charges against Israel at UN top court |url=https://www.pbs.org/newshour/world/read-the-full-application-bringing-genocide-charges-against-israel-at-un-top-court |website=PBS |date=3 January 2024 |publisher=Associated Press |access-date=7 January 2024}} In response, the government of Israel instructed its embassies to lobby diplomats and politicians around the world to issue statements against South Africa's case.{{cite web |last1=Ravid |first1=Barak |title=Inside Israel's plan to quash South Africa's Gaza genocide case |url=https://www.axios.com/2024/01/05/south-africa-gaza-genocide-icj-israel-plan |website=Axios |date=5 January 2024 |access-date=7 January 2024}}

{{see also|Israeli incursions in the West Bank during the 2023 Israel–Hamas war}}

Following the 7 October attack, Israel intensified its military actions in the West Bank. These included raids in Jenin and attacks on hospitals, paramedics, and medical personnel. In a statement, a Doctors Without Borders representative stated, "Since October, we have witnessed the shooting and killing of a 14-year-old boy in the hospital compound, soldiers firing live rounds and tear gas at the hospital several times, paramedics forced to strip and kneel in the street".{{cite web |title='Staggering' Israeli assault on civilians and health care in Jenin: MSF |url=https://aje.io/pewvkd?update=2560308 |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=16 December 2023}}

{{further|Policy paper: Options for a policy regarding Gaza's civilian population}}

{{see also|2023 Gaza Strip evacuations}}

In the immediate aftermath of the 7 October attack, a document from the Intelligence Ministry, an Israeli government research agency, proposed the forcible expulsion of the population of Gaza into the Sinai desert in neighboring Egypt.{{cite web |title=Leaked document fuels concern Israel plans to push Palestinians from Gaza into Egypt |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/world/israel-gaza-palestinians-concept-paper-1.7015576#:~:text=An%20Israeli%20government%20document%20suggesting,possible%20ethnic%20cleansing%20of%20Palestinians. |website=CBC |access-date=25 December 2023}} Agencies and experts, including the Government of Egypt and the UN special rapporteur on internally displaced persons, have stated they believe Israel's intent is to expel Gazans into Egypt.{{cite web |title=Israel working to expel civilian population of Gaza, UN expert warns |url=https://www.ohchr.org/en/press-releases/2023/12/israel-working-expel-civilian-population-gaza-un-expert-warns |website=OHCHR |publisher=United Nations |access-date=25 December 2023}}{{cite web |title=Egypt fears Israel pushing Palestinians to Sinai with south Gaza strikes |url=https://www.newarab.com/news/gaza-egypt-fears-israeli-push-palestinians-sinai |website=The New Arab |date=2 December 2023 |access-date=25 December 2023}} On 23 December, MK Danny Danon wrote on a social media post he had initiated a plan for the voluntary migration of Palestinians out of Gaza.{{cite web |last1=Isaac |first1=David |title=Voluntary population transfer floated as option for Gaza residents |url=https://www.israeltoday.co.il/read/voluntary-population-transfer-floated-as-option-for-gaza-residents/ |website=Israel Today |access-date=26 December 2023}} In a 25 December meeting with Likud party members, PM Netanyahu reportedly said he was ready to support the "voluntary migration" of civilians from Gaza.{{cite news |title=Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu says no peace until Hamas destroyed |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/international/world-news/israel-pm-benjamin-netanyahu-says-no-peace-until-hamas-destroyed/articleshow/106282209.cms |website=The Economic Times |date=26 December 2023 |publisher=AFP |access-date=26 December 2023}}

Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich stated Israel should "encourage immigration" from Gaza.{{cite web |last1=Kestler-D'Amours |first1=Jillian |last2=Harb |first2=Ali |title=Biden under pressure to act amid new fears of 'ethnic cleansing' in Gaza |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/1/2/biden-under-pressure-to-act-amid-new-fears-of-ethnic-cleansing-in-gaza |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=3 January 2024}} On 2 January, Minister of National Security Itamar Ben-Gvir stated, "We will do what is best for the State of Israel: the migration of hundreds of thousands from Gaza".{{cite web |title=Ben-Gvir says Israel is not 'another star on the American flag' |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2024/1/2/israel-hamas-war-live-almost-22000-palestinians-killed-by-israel-in-gaza?update=2594276 |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=2 January 2024}} On 7 January, Ben-Gvir stated emigration was the "order of the hour".{{cite web |title=Israeli settlements in Gaza's north the 'order of the hour': Ben-Gvir |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2024/1/7/israel-war-on-gaza-live-signs-of-starvation-everywhere-in-southern-gaza?update=2602681 |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=8 January 2024}} On 18 January, Ben-Gvir stated, "Voluntary immigration of the residents of Gaza should be encouraged".{{cite web |title=Voluntary immigration of the residents of Gaza should be encouraged |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2024/1/18/israels-war-on-gaza-live-medicine-arrives-for-captives-palestinians?update=2628912 |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=19 January 2024}}

Indications of Israeli government plans for a military occupation of Gaza varied in the aftermath of the attack. On 5 December, prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu suggested plans for a direct military occupation of Gaza.{{cite web |last1=Jobain |first1=Najib |last2=Magdy |first2=Samy |title=Netanyahu says military will control security in Gaza after war ends as Israel steps up strikes |url=https://www.pbs.org/newshour/world/israel-steps-up-strikes-around-gazas-second-largest-city |website=PBS |date=5 December 2023 |publisher=Associated Press |access-date=16 December 2023}} On 15 December, Amihai Eliyahu suggested a full military occupation and the reestablishment of settlements.{{cite web |title=Far-right minister calls for Israel to 'fully occupy' Gaza, reestablish settlements |url=https://www.timesofisrael.com/far-right-minister-calls-for-israel-to-fully-occupy-gaza-reestablish-settlements/ |website=Times of Israel |access-date=16 December 2023}} During the conflict, several Israeli cabinet officials suggested that Israel would permanently control Gaza after the war.{{cite web |title=Israel will permanently control Gaza, Israeli officials say |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2024/1/1/israel-hamas-war-live-new-year-in-gaza-under-non-stop-israeli-bombardment?update=2591436 |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=2 January 2024}} On 21 January 2024, diaspora minister Amichai Chikli stated that Gaza should be occupied by either Israel or an international power.{{cite web |title=Minister calls for occupation of Gaza by Israeli or international troops |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2024/1/21/israels-war-on-gaza-live-deadly-israeli-attacks-across-gaza?update=2637050 |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=22 January 2024}} On 27 January, Israeli finance minister Bezalel Smotrich stated Gaza would be placed under a military administration.{{cite web |title=Smotrich says Gaza will be placed under military administration |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2024/1/27/israels-war-on-gaza-live-hospital-blackout-amid-khan-younis-assault?update=2653542 |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=28 January 2024}}

Following the 7 October attack, Israeli officials repeatedly stated they were opposed to an end to fighting through a negotiated settlement. On 21 January 2024, PM Netanyahu stated he was opposed to ending the war through a political deal because it would mean "our soldiers have fallen in vain."{{cite web |title=Soldiers 'fell in vain' if Israel accepts deal with Hamas, says Netanyahu |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2024/1/21/israels-war-on-gaza-live-deadly-israeli-attacks-across-gaza?update=2638069 |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=22 January 2024}} On 24 January 2024, Israeli ambassador to the UN Gilad Erdan stated that a ceasefire would result in "another attempted Holocaust".{{cite web |title=Israeli UN envoy: Ceasefire will bring 'another attempted Holocaust' |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2024/1/23/israels-war-on-gaza-ground-shaking-in-hospital-amid-israeli-attacks?update=2643330 |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=24 January 2024}}

On 5 January 2024, the Israeli government released a framework for Gaza following the end of the conflict, stating Hamas would not control the Strip with it instead being run by a "Palestinian entity" with a continued Israeli military presence.{{cite web |last1=Khan |first1=Laura |title=Israel's framework plan for Gaza: 'Day after war may look like day before war' |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2024/1/5/israel-war-on-gaza-live-israel-attacks-bombard-khan-younis-rafah?update=2598742 |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=5 January 2024}} In the plan released by defense minister Yoav Gallant, the IDF would retain military control and Israel would "guide" the Palestinian civil administration while the U.S. and other countries oversaw rebuilding in the Gaza Strip.{{cite web |last1=Jobain |first1=Najib |title=Israeli defense minister lays out vision for next steps of Gaza war ahead of Blinken visit |url=https://apnews.com/article/israel-hamas-war-news-01-03-2024-3b77b0c36bf2cd9922b7a484234bef5f |website=Associated Press |date=4 January 2024 |access-date=7 January 2024}}

On 10 January, Benjamin Netanyahu stated, "I want to make a few points absolutely clear: Israel has no intention of permanently occupying Gaza or displacing its civilian population."{{cite web |title=Netanyahu claims goal of Gaza war is not displacement of Palestinians |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2024/1/10/israels-war-on-gaza-us-laments-gaza-deaths-but-opposes-ceasefire?update=2609381 |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=10 January 2024}} On 15 January, Yoav Gallant stated Gaza "will be ruled by Palestinians" after the war.{{cite web |title=Israeli defence chief says forces moving to next phase of war |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2024/1/15/israels-war-on-gaza-live-hunger-cold-threaten-more-lives-in-gaza?update=2622840 |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=16 January 2024}} On 18 January, Netanyahu stated, "In any future arrangement… Israel needs security control all territory west of the Jordan. So it contradicts the idea of self-rule [for Palestinians]. So what?"{{cite web |title=Netanyahu shoots down US talk of pathway to Palestinian state |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2024/1/18/israels-war-on-gaza-live-medicine-arrives-for-captives-palestinians?update=2630890 |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=19 January 2024}} Following backlash from western politicians, Netanyahu wrote that Israel "will not compromise on full Israeli security control over the entire area west of Jordan."{{cite web |title=Netanyahu rejects Biden's statements on two-state solution |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2024/1/20/israels-war-on-gaza-live-israel-denied-70-of-aid-to-north-gaza-says-un?update=2636118 |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=21 January 2024}} Benny Gantz stated the war could last "10 years, or even an entire generation".{{cite web |title=Israel's war on Hamas could last 'an entire generation', minister says |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2024/1/29/israels-war-on-gaza-live-us-vows-to-respond-to-killing-of-troops?update=2656771 |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=30 January 2024}} On 30 January, Yoav Gallant reportedly stated he would like Israel to operate freely in Gaza as it does in the West Bank.{{cite web |title=Gallant wants Israel to 'operate' in Gaza like West Bank: Report |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2024/1/30/israels-war-on-gaza-live-israeli-forces-detain-dozens-in-un-shelter-raid?update=2661782 |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=31 January 2024}}

A report leaked from the prime minister's office showed a three step post-war plan for Gaza, with the first being Israeli military rulership, then an international Arab coalition, and finally, a Palestinian state.{{cite web |last1=Caspit |first1=Ben |title=The future of Gaza: Netanyahu's strategic gambit unveiled |url=https://www.jpost.com/israel-hamas-war/article-784451 |website=Jerusalem Post |date=31 January 2024 |access-date=1 February 2024}} Netanyahu's official postwar plan suggested full military occupation of Gaza and the dismantling of UNRWA.{{cite web |last1=Thoms |first1=Silja |title=How Israel plans to run postwar Gaza |url=https://www.dw.com/en/how-israel-plans-to-run-postwar-gaza/a-68361988 |website=DW |access-date=28 February 2024}}

{{main|Mass detentions in the 2023 Israel–Hamas war}}

Since the outbreak of the Gaza war on October 7, Israel has carried out mass arrests and detentions of Palestinians, with thousands arrested or detained in Israel and the occupied Palestinian territories.{{Cite news |last1=Sawafta |first1=Ali |last2=Chacar |first2=Henriette |date=2023-11-18 |title=West Bank Palestinians report Israeli beatings, mistreatment |language=en |work=Reuters |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/palestinian-detainees-report-israeli-beatings-mistreatment-west-bank-arrests-2023-11-18/ |access-date=2023-11-19}}{{Cite web |last=Abdel-Baqui |first=Omar |date=2023-11-05 |title=Israel Steps Up Arrests in the West Bank in Wake of Hamas Attacks |url=https://www.wsj.com/world/middle-east/israel-steps-up-arrests-in-the-west-bank-in-wake-of-hamas-attacks-1d7f5c92 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231105190422/https://www.wsj.com/world/middle-east/israel-steps-up-arrests-in-the-west-bank-in-wake-of-hamas-attacks-1d7f5c92 |archive-date=2023-11-05 |access-date=2023-11-07 |website=The Wall Street Journal}} News outlets and human rights organizations both within and outside of Israel reported that thousands of Gazan workers in Israel were detained or disappeared in the weeks following October 7.{{Cite web |title=Thousands of Palestinian Workers Have Gone Missing in Israel |url=https://jacobin.com/2023/10/palestinian-workers-missing-detained-israel-occupation-gaza |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=jacobin.com |language=en-US}}{{Cite news |date=2023-10-30 |title=Since start of war, more than 1,700 Palestinians in the West Bank have disappeared into Israeli custody, officials say |language=en-CA |work=The Globe and Mail |url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/world/article-since-start-of-war-more-than-1700-palestinians-in-the-west-bank-have/ |access-date=2023-11-05}} Additionally, Israel has carried out mass arrests in the occupied West Bank, detained Palestinian fighters captured inside Israel, and arrested Palestinian citizens of Israel.{{Cite web |title=Mass arrests of Palestinians in occupied West Bank |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/program/newsfeed/2023/10/17/mass-arrests-of-palestinians-in-occupied-west-bank |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=Al Jazeera |language=en}}{{Cite web |last=ACRI |date=2023-10-31 |title=To Inform the Relatives of Detained Terrorists {{!}} Association for Civil Rights in Israel |url=https://www.english.acri.org.il/post/to-inform-the-relatives-of-detained-terrorists |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=ACRI - english |language=en |archive-date=2023-11-27 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231127093810/https://www.english.acri.org.il/post/to-inform-the-relatives-of-detained-terrorists |url-status=dead }}

Concerns have been raised regarding the legality, secrecy, and conditions of many detentions, including widespread mistreatment and allegations of torture. On November 3, Israel reportedly deported 3,200 Palestinian workers to the Gaza Strip.{{Cite news |last1=McKernan |first1=Bethan |last2=Carroll |first2=Rory |date=2023-11-03 |title=Israel deports thousands of stranded Palestinian workers back to Gaza |language=en-GB |work=The Guardian |url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/nov/03/israel-deports-thousands-of-stranded-palestinian-workers-back-to-gaza |access-date=2023-11-05 |issn=0261-3077}} In addition to Palestinian prisoners in custody prior to the outbreak of the war, an unknown number of individuals remain in detention.{{Cite web |last=Amer |first=Ruwaida |title='Tortured, arrested and insulted', say workers returned to Gaza by Israel |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/11/3/arrested-tortured-and-insulted-say-workers-returned-to-gaza-by-israel |access-date=2023-11-05 |website=Al Jazeera |language=en}} More than 3,000 Palestinians have been arrested in the West Bank and occupied East Jerusalem since October 7, according to the UN.{{Cite news |date=2023-12-01 |title=UN rights office 'seriously concerned' about Israel's increased arrest of Palestinians |language=en |work=Reuters |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/un-rights-office-seriously-concerned-about-israels-increased-arrest-palestinians-2023-12-01/ |access-date=2023-12-04 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231202024840/https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/un-rights-office-seriously-concerned-about-israels-increased-arrest-palestinians-2023-12-01/ |archive-date=2023-12-02}} Images of Israel's mass arrests in Gaza circulated widely during the war, showing men with no known organizational affiliations stripped naked, tied up, and blindfolded.{{cite news |title=Video shows Israeli soldiers rounding up Palestinian men in Northern Gaza |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2023/12/07/israel-hamas-war-news-gaza-update-palestine/#link-PXWOEG3LIVBFNIG3Y7PL2EWVKA |newspaper=The Washington Post |access-date=8 December 2023}}{{cite web |last1=Salman |first1=Abeer |title=Images from Gaza show Israeli soldiers detaining dozens of men stripped to underwear |url=https://www.cnn.com/middleeast/live-news/israel-hamas-war-gaza-news-12-07-23/h_3338bf7ccd1547057b436c361b134a12 |website=CNN |date=7 December 2023 |access-date=8 December 2023}}{{Cite news |date=2023-12-08 |title=Video shows stripped Palestinian men detained in Gaza |language=en-GB |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-67659296 |access-date=2023-12-08}}{{Cite web |title=Israel-Gaza latest: 'We arrest everyone,' Israeli military says after video emerges |url=https://news.sky.com/story/israel-gaza-latest-us-steps-up-pressure-on-israel-with-visa-ban-as-un-tells-netanyahu-military-operation-has-to-stop-12978800 |access-date=2023-12-08 |website=Sky News |language=en}} Human rights organizations described Israel's mass arrest campaigns in Gaza as "random and arbitrary".{{cite web |last1=Salman |first1=Abeer |title=Images from Gaza show Israeli soldiers detaining dozens of men stripped to underwear |url=https://uk.finance.yahoo.com/news/images-gaza-show-israeli-soldiers-233212470.html?guccounter=1&guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZ29vZ2xlLmNvbS8&guce_referrer_sig=AQAAAClpHhwTtgLbdQ_vpWAyu5OIo1R8-nHV-goxM_knCRzHO-CGhe0zuXgBP0uNL1boC1ciSDGQ6WZ9pCKSIZtyMaqzDW76LCF9yYbfxFvCPW-ZUbJUmYUV7YHUuWe7M7aUgtXlwmXScJ_PhrSaby7Wo2svZkIEE-XDvFJu3Ez0RuTA |website=Yahoo! Finance |publisher=CNN |access-date=8 December 2023}}

In February 2024, UNRWA accused Israel of torturing United Nations staff in order to extract false confessions that some UNRWA staff had been involved with the 7 October attack on Israel.{{cite web |last1=Perry |first1=Tom |title=UNRWA report says Israel coerced some agency employees to falsely admit Hamas links |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/unrwa-report-says-israel-coerced-some-agency-employees-falsely-admit-hamas-links-2024-03-08/ |website=Reuters |access-date=18 March 2024}} The charge came amidst widespread reports of the torture of Palestinians in Israeli prisons following 7 October.{{cite web |last1=Speakman Cordall |first1=Simon |last2=Pedrosa |first2=Veronica |title=Not just the UNRWA report: Countless accounts of Israeli torture in Gaza |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/3/13/after-the-unrwa-report-more-accounts-of-israels-torture-in-gaza |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=18 March 2024}}

{{See also|Israeli settlement|Israeli settler violence}}

The Israeli government approved new expansions in occupied East Jerusalem during the war.{{cite web |title=Israel approves new settlement in east Jerusalem: NGO |url=https://www.france24.com/en/live-news/20231206-israel-approves-new-settlement-in-east-jerusalem-ngo |website=France24 |date=6 December 2023 |access-date=9 December 2023}} On 14 December, Amichai Chikli, the Social Equality Minister, stated Israeli settlements in the Gaza Strip were a possibility "in certain parts where it makes sense".{{cite web |title=Minister in Netanyahu's party doesn't rule out Israeli settlements in Gaza |url=https://www.timesofisrael.com/liveblog_entry/minister-in-netanyahus-party-doesnt-rule-out-israeli-settlements-in-gaza/ |website=The Times of Israel |access-date=14 December 2023}}{{cite web |last1=Rosenberg |first1=Yair |title=The Right-Wing Israeli Campaign to Resettle Gaza |url=https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2023/12/israel-right-wing-settler-gaza-netanyahu/676943/ |website=The Atlantic |date=22 December 2023 |access-date=14 January 2024}} On 30 December, Israeli finance minister Bezalel Smotrich stated the "future" of Gaza settlements would be determined after the war.{{cite web |title=Smotrich says Israel will discuss 'future' of Gaza settlements after war |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2023/12/30/israel-hamas-war-live-un-aid-chief-decries-israeli-attack-on-relief-convoy?update=2588111 |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=31 December 2023}} In a later statement, Smotrich said Israelis in Gaza would "make the desert bloom".{{cite web |last1=Mackenzie |first1=James |title=Israeli minister repeats call for Palestinians to leave Gaza |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/israeli-minister-repeats-call-palestinians-leave-gaza-2023-12-31/ |website=Reuters |access-date=31 December 2023}} On 4 January, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant stated Israel would not have a "civil presence" in Gaza after the war but would retain unrestricted military movement in it.{{cite web |title=Palestinians to be 'responsible' for Gaza after war, says Israeli defence minister |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2024/1/4/israel-hamas-war-live-bloody-day-for-hezbollah-tensions-with-israel-soar?update=2598239 |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=5 January 2024}} On 7 January, Itamar Ben-Gvir stated Israeli settlements in Gaza were the "order of the hour".{{cite news |last1=Samuels |first1=Ben |title=Israel's Ben-Gvir: 'Voluntary' Transfer of Gazans Is the Solution, Israelis Should Resettle Strip |url=https://www.haaretz.com/israel-news/2024-01-07/ty-article/ben-gvir-voluntary-transfer-of-gazans-is-the-solution-israelis-should-re-settle-strip/0000018c-e2f0-d751-ad8d-fff4fb4d0000 |website=Haaretz |access-date=14 January 2024}} On 8 January, Middle East Eye reported a group of MKs met with Nachala to discuss plans to build future Jewish settlements in Gaza.{{cite web |title=War on Gaza: Israeli MPs hold meeting on building settlements in Gaza |url=https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/war-gaza-israeli-parliament-members-hold-meeting-building-israeli-settlements-gaza |website=Middle East Eye |access-date=14 January 2024}} Israel approved 700 new settler units in East Jerusalem on 9 January.{{cite web |title=Israel approves some 700 units in occupied East Jerusalem settlement |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2024/1/9/israel-war-on-gaza-blinken-arrives-in-israel-as-fighting-continues?update=2606910 |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=10 January 2024}}

Israeli tourism minister Haim Katz, as well as other Likud party members, announced a conference for Israeli settlements in Gaza in response to the 7 October attacks.{{cite web |title=Israeli ministers to host conference on Gaza settlements |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2024/1/23/israels-war-on-gaza-ground-shaking-in-hospital-amid-israeli-attacks?update=2643249 |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=24 January 2024}} The conference was planned to be hosted at Binyanei Hauma.{{cite web |last1=Fink |first1=Rachel |title=Netanyahu's Likud Ministers, Far-right MKs to Attend Israeli 'Gaza Resettlement' Conference |url=https://www.haaretz.com/israel-news/2024-01-24/ty-article/netanyahus-likud-ministers-far-right-mks-to-attend-gaza-resettlment-confab/0000018d-3b1e-d35c-a39f-bb5e38070000 |website=Haaretz |access-date=25 January 2024}} It was held on 28 January and drew both Israeli cabinet ministers and members of parliament.{{cite web |title=Israelis call for resettling post-war Gaza |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2024/1/28/israels-war-on-gaza-live-aid-cuts-are-collective-punishment-unrwa?update=2656011 |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=29 January 2024}} Ben-Gvir was quoted stating, "In the first stage, we will encourage emigration – hundreds of thousands through a pilot, and we’ll just transfer them".{{cite web |title=Far-right Israeli ministers continue to promote mass displacement in Gaza |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2024/1/29/israels-war-on-gaza-live-us-vows-to-respond-to-killing-of-troops?update=2658749 |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=30 January 2024}} Ir Amim reported on 11 February that 17 settlements with around 8,400 units had been approved in East Jerusalem since the start of the conflict.{{cite web |title=Israel exploiting war to create more facts on ground in Jerusalem: Watchdog |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2024/2/11/israels-war-on-gaza-live-leaders-warn-of-catastrophe-if-rafah-invaded?update=2700890 |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=11 February 2024}} On 22 February, Bezalel Smotrich approved 3,344 new settler homes in the West Bank.{{cite web |title=Israel to authorise new West Bank settlements |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2024/2/22/israels-war-on-gaza-live-gaza-has-become-a-death-zone-says-who-chief?update=2726895 |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=23 February 2024}} The move was criticized by Josep Borrell who stated it was "inflammatory and dangerous".{{cite web |title=Israeli decision to build new settlements will 'fuel tensions': EU top diplomat |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2024/2/24/israels-war-on-gaza-live-unrwa-no-longer-functional-in-north-gaza?update=2729951 |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=25 February 2024}} The French Ministry of Foreign Affairs also condemned the announcement, stating, "Colonisation is incompatible with the creation of a Palestinian State. As well as being an obstacle to a lasting peace, this policy is also fuelling violence and tensions on the ground".{{cite web |title=France condemns Israeli plans for settlement expansion |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2024/2/27/israels-war-on-gaza-live-biden-comments-turn-focus-back-to-gaza-ceasefire?update=2736085 |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=28 February 2024}} The UAE, Germany, Qatar, and Bahrain also condemned the expansion.{{cite web |title=UAE, Bahrain condemn Israel for plan to build 3,500 new settlement units |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2024/3/7/israels-war-on-gaza-live-20-starve-to-death-in-gaza-more-feared-dead?update=2756547 |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=9 March 2024}}{{cite web |title=Israel's illegal West Bank settlement plans face global condemnation |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/3/7/israels-illegal-west-bank-settlement-plans-face-global-condemnation |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=9 March 2024}} Denmark also condemned the expansion.{{cite web |title=Denmark slams Israel's plans to expand West Bank settlements |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2024/3/11/israels-war-on-gaza-live-ramadan-begins-with-no-end-to-israels-siege?update=2764125 |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=14 March 2024}}

In March 2024, it was reported that sales of property in the West Bank were being promoted internationally with events being hosted in synagogues in the United States and Canada.{{Cite web |last=Anderson |first=Brooke |date=2024-03-05 |title=West Bank settlements promoted at N. American synagogues |url=https://www.newarab.com/news/west-bank-settlements-promoted-n-american-synagogues |access-date=2024-03-25 |website=The NewArab |language=en}} After the Israeli government announced in March 2024 it was confiscating 800 hectares of land in the West Bank, the Israeli watchdog organization Peace Now stated it was the single largest land seizure since the passage of the 1993 Oslo Accords.{{cite web |title=West Bank land seizure largest since Oslo accords: Watchdog |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2024/3/22/israels-war-on-gaza-live-the-choice-is-clear-a-2-state-solution?update=2790604 |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=24 March 2024}} The Palestinian Foreign Ministry condemned the expropriation as part of Israel's "theft" of the Palestinian homeland.{{cite web |title=Palestinian ministry slams Israel over new settlement plan |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2024/3/22/israels-war-on-gaza-live-the-choice-is-clear-a-2-state-solution?update=2789928 |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=24 March 2024}} The Arab Parliament condemned the land seizure.{{cite web |title=Arab Parliament condemns Israel's latest settlement plan |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2024/3/23/israels-war-on-gaza-live-netanyahu-brushes-off-blinken-over-rafah-attack?update=2791979 |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=26 March 2024}} The European Union released a statement, saying, "In line with its longstanding common position and UN Security Council Resolutions, the EU will not recognise changes to the 1967 borders unless agreed by the parties".{{cite web |title=EU 'will not recognise changes to 1967 borders' after Israeli confiscation of land |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2024/3/24/israels-war-on-gaza-live-19-killed-as-israel-again-fires-on-aid-seekers?update=2795465 |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=26 March 2024}}{{cite web |title=Statement by the Spokesperson on the announcement to confiscate occupied land |url=https://www.eeas.europa.eu/eeas/israelpalestine-statement-spokesperson-announcement-confiscate-occupied-land_en?s=200 |website=Delegation of the European Union to the State of Israel |access-date=26 March 2024}}

On 31 March 2024, Smotrich announced an expanded Israeli settlement in Wadi Auja, calling it an "appropriate Zionist response" to an attack against Israelis in the Jordan Valley.{{cite web |title=Israel announces Jordan Valley settlement expansion in 'appropriate Zionist response' |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2024/3/31/israels-war-on-gaza-live-hundreds-killed-in-al-shifa-hospital-siege?update=2810207 |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=7 April 2024}} Yitzhak Wasserlauf, an Israeli cabinet official, stated, "A total victory means a return to settle" the Gaza Strip.{{cite web |title=Israeli minister calls for settlements in Gaza |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2024/4/1/israels-war-on-gaza-live-twenty-one-al-shifa-patients-have-died-amid-siege-who?update=2811213 |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=8 April 2024}} In May 2024, Defense Minister Yoav Gallant announced settlers evacuated from the West Bank in 2005 would be allowed to return.{{cite web |last1=Kubovich |first1=Yang |title=Israel's Defense Chief Expands Law Allowing Return to Evacuated West Bank Settlements |url=https://www.haaretz.com/israel-news/2024-05-22/ty-article/.premium/israels-defense-chief-expands-law-allowing-return-to-evacuated-west-bank-settlements/0000018f-a019-d35f-a1df-ffd92cc20000 |website=Haaretz |access-date=31 May 2024}}

{{further|Gaza war hostage crisis}}

Meetings between the Israeli government and the families of hostages held in Gaza were described as chaotic and tense.{{cite web |title='Chaos and yelling': Freed hostages, family members clash with Netanyahu in meeting |url=https://www.timesofisrael.com/chaos-and-yelling-freed-hostages-family-members-clash-with-netanyahu-in-meeting/#:~:text=A%20markedly%20tense%20meeting%20was,members%20of%20the%20war%20cabinet. |website=The Times of Israel |access-date=9 December 2023}} During a meeting, a family member criticized that the hostages were under "constant threat from the IDF shelling."{{cite web |last1=Nasser |first1=Irene |title=Leaked audio of heated meeting reveals hostages' fury at Netanyahu |url=https://www.cnn.com/2023/12/06/middleeast/leaked-audio-of-heated-meeting-reveals-hostages-fury-at-netanyahu/index.html |website=CNN |date=6 December 2023 |access-date=31 December 2023}} The brother of one of the three captives killed by Israeli forces in Gaza told Yoav Gallant that his brother would haunt Gallant in his sleep.{{cite web |title=Killed captive's brother tells Israeli defence minister he would 'haunt' him in his sleep |url=https://aje.io/4n1rfv?update=2572293 |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=22 December 2023}} During a meeting with hostage families, Sara Netanyahu, the Spouse of the Prime Minister of Israel, reportedly accused the families of helping Hamas.{{cite web |title=Report: Sara Netanyahu accused hostage families of helping Hamas |url=https://www.timesofisrael.com/liveblog_entry/report-sara-netanyahu-accused-hostage-families-of-helping-hamas/ |website=The Times of Israel |access-date=4 February 2024}} In March 2024, the hostage families went directly to U.S. president Biden to request for a hostage deal, stating they were frustrated by "the lack of ongoing communication and commitment" from the War Cabinet.{{cite web |title=Israeli captive families ask Biden to pressure Netanyahu for a deal |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2024/3/22/israels-war-on-gaza-live-the-choice-is-clear-a-2-state-solution?update=2791235 |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=24 March 2024}}{{cite web |last1=Magid |first1=Jacob |title=Nearly 600 relatives of 81 hostages ask Biden to press PM for deal to free them |url=https://www.timesofisrael.com/nearly-600-relatives-of-81-hostages-ask-biden-to-press-pm-for-deal-to-free-them/ |website=The Times of Israel |access-date=24 March 2024}}

{{main|2023 Israeli–Palestinian prisoner exchange}}

{{further|2023 Gaza war ceasefire}}

The Israeli government approved a hostage-exchange with Hamas to release Palestinian prisoners held in Israel for hostages held in Gaza.{{cite news |last1=Zilber |first1=Neri |title=Who are the Palestinian women and children being freed under hostage deal? |url=https://www.ft.com/content/ea143178-9998-4120-95d0-a02d0270ee20?shareType=nongift |website=Financial Times |date=24 November 2023 |access-date=25 November 2023 |archive-date=25 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231125222028/https://www.ft.com/content/ea143178-9998-4120-95d0-a02d0270ee20?shareType=nongift |url-status=live |url-access=subscription}}

{{further|2023 Israeli blockade of the Gaza Strip|Gaza Strip famine}}

Controversies arose over the delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza following the 7 October attack. Israel first announced a total blockade of all relief into the Strip, but eventually allowed limited aid in.{{cite web |last1=Magid |first1=Jacob |title=Israel agrees to allow 100 trucks of humanitarian aid into Gaza each day — official |url=https://www.timesofisrael.com/israel-agreed-to-allow-100-trucks-of-humanitarian-aid-into-gaza-each-day-official/ |website=Times of Israel |access-date=16 January 2024}} By January 2024, agencies like the United Nations criticized Israel for not allowing sufficient aid,{{cite web |last1=Tétrault-Farber |first1=Gabrielle |title=UN deplores Israel's 'systematic' refusal to grant access to north Gaza |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/un-deplores-israels-systematic-refusal-grant-access-north-gaza-2024-01-12/ |website=Reuters |access-date=16 January 2024}} and as a result, creating a famine affecting nearly 500,000 Palestinians.{{cite web |last1=Regan |first1=Helen |title=Hundreds of thousands are starving in Gaza as famine arrives at 'incredible speed,' UN aid chief warns |url=https://www.cnn.com/2024/01/16/middleeast/gaza-famine-starvation-un-israel-war-intl-hnk/index.html |website=CNN |date=16 January 2024 |access-date=16 January 2024}} In response, COGAT stated there was no hunger in Gaza.{{cite web |last1=Summer |first1=Charlie |title='No food shortage in Gaza,' says IDF official, dismissing UN claims to the contrary |url=https://www.timesofisrael.com/no-food-shortage-in-gaza-says-idf-official-overseeing-transfer-of-aid/ |website=Times of Israel |access-date=16 January 2024}} Diaa Rashwan, the chairman of the State Information Service, stated Israel's "stubbornness and intentionality" had resulted in the delay of humanitarian aid delivery.{{cite web |title=Egypt blames Israel's 'stubbornness' for blocking aid through Rafah |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2024/1/15/israels-war-on-gaza-live-hunger-cold-threaten-more-lives-in-gaza?update=2621550 |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=16 January 2024}}

{{further|Hasbara}}

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) designated a Spokesperson's Unit to be responsible for the IDF's information policy and deal with the media relations during peace and war time. It served as a liaison between the military and the domestic and foreign media markets as well as the general public and functioned as a key player for the public diplomacy of Israel.{{Cite web |last=Hirschberger |first=Bernd |title=External Communication in Social Media During Asymmetric Conflicts |url=https://www.transcript-verlag.de/978-3-8376-5509-4/external-communication-in-social-media-during-asymmetric-conflicts/ |access-date=2023-12-11 |website=transcript Verlag |page=100 |language=en |archive-date=2021-08-01 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210801005318/https://www.transcript-verlag.de/978-3-8376-5509-4/external-communication-in-social-media-during-asymmetric-conflicts/ |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |title=IDF Spokesperson's Unit |url=http://www.idfblog.com/about/idf-spokespersons-unit/ |access-date=December 11, 2023 |archive-date=January 16, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140116192015/http://www.idfblog.com/about/idf-spokespersons-unit/ }} In March 2024, Israel Katz ordered Israeli embassies around the world to begin a large-scale hasbara campaign about alleged sexual violence on 7 October, including "media interviews, distributing messages across social media platforms, and engaging in meetings with decision-makers".{{cite web |title=Israel Katz launches global public diplomacy campaign amid UN probe |url=https://www.jpost.com/israel-hamas-war/article-790664 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240318012445/https://www.jpost.com/israel-hamas-war/article-790664 |url-status=dead |archive-date=2024-03-18 |website=The Jerusalem Post |access-date=18 March 2024}}

{{see also|Gaza war protests in Israel}}

File:Bring Them Home Gedera 01.jpg

Arab Israelis reported a government crackdown on free speech, with individuals arrested for social media posts and likes.{{cite magazine |last1=Gessen |first1=Masha |title=Inside the Israeli Crackdown on Speech |url=https://www.newyorker.com/news/annals-of-human-rights/inside-the-israeli-crackdown-on-speech |magazine=The New Yorker |date=8 November 2023 |access-date=8 November 2023 |archive-date=8 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231108202211/https://www.newyorker.com/news/annals-of-human-rights/inside-the-israeli-crackdown-on-speech |url-status=live }} On 15 October, communications minister Shlomo Karhi proposed emergency regulations allowing for the arrest of individuals who hurt "national morale."{{cite news |last1=Bar-Eli |first1=Avi |title=Likud Minister Formulates Emergency Regulations to Imprison Citizens Who 'Harm National Morale' |url=https://www.haaretz.com/israel-news/2023-10-15/ty-article/.premium/israeli-minister-seeks-to-imprison-citizens-who-harm-national-morale/0000018b-33a7-d0b2-afff-33e788c00000 |website=Haaretz |access-date=8 November 2023 |archive-date=24 October 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231024162806/https://www.haaretz.com/israel-news/2023-10-15/ty-article/.premium/israeli-minister-seeks-to-imprison-citizens-who-harm-national-morale/0000018b-33a7-d0b2-afff-33e788c00000 |url-status=live }} Following a rally in support of Gaza in Haifa, police commissioner Kobi Shabtai threatened to send antiwar protesters to the Gaza Strip on buses.{{Cite news |date=19 October 2023 |title=Israel police boss threatens to send anti-war protesters to Gaza 'on buses' |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/10/19/israel-police-boss-threatens-to-send-anti-war-protesters-to-gaza-on-buses |publisher=Al Jazeera |access-date=9 November 2023 |archive-date=9 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231109180958/https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/10/19/israel-police-boss-threatens-to-send-anti-war-protesters-to-gaza-on-buses |url-status=live }}

On 8 November, the Israel Supreme Court allowed police to bar all anti-war protests.{{cite web |title=Israeli high court rejects petition against Gaza war protest ban |url=https://aje.io/d5kugr?update=2472567 |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=8 November 2023 |archive-date=19 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231119194316/https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2023/11/8/israel-hamas-war-live-humanitarian-aid-targeted-amid-gaza-bombardment?update=2472567 |url-status=live }} On 9 November, Israeli police arrested former MK Mohammad Barakeh in Nazareth for attempting to organize an anti-war protest.{{cite web |title=More on Mohammad Barakeh's arrest |url=https://aje.io/u6olfz?update=2474588 |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=9 November 2023 |archive-date=19 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231119194324/https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2023/11/9/israel-gaza-war-live-day-34?update=2474588 |url-status=live }}{{cite web|url=https://www.timesofisrael.com/demanding-answers-families-of-captives-begin-protest-march-from-tel-aviv-to-knesset/|title=Demanding answers, families of captives begin protest march from Tel Aviv to Knesset|publisher=Times of Israel|access-date=17 November 2023|archive-date=16 November 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231116231714/https://www.timesofisrael.com/demanding-answers-families-of-captives-begin-protest-march-from-tel-aviv-to-knesset/|url-status=live}} In an interview with Time Magazine, Barakeh described the Israeli government as establishing a fascist regime.{{cite web |last1=Serhan |first1=Yasmeen |title='They Are Behaving in a Fascist Way:' An Israeli-Arab Lawmaker on the Stifling of Anti-War Voices |url=https://time.com/6333939/israeli-arab-lawmaker-aida-touma-sliman-anti-war-gaza/ |website=Time Magazine |date=11 November 2023 |access-date=20 November 2023}} On 18 November, Israel held its first permitted anti-war protest in Tel Aviv.{{cite web |last1=Jamjoom |first1=Mohammed |title=Protest against Gaza war goes ahead in Tel Aviv |url=https://aje.io/vx4bwb?update=2496571 |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=18 November 2023 |archive-date=19 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231119194329/https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2023/11/18/israel-hamas-war-live-conditions-worsen-as-another-baby-dies-at-al-shifa?update=2496571 |url-status=live }}

On 23 November, communications minister Shlomo Karhi proposed defunding the newspaper Haaretz due to its "defeatist and false propaganda."{{cite news |last1=Gueta |first1=Jazmin |title=Israel's Communications Minister Threatens Haaretz, Suggests Penalizing Its Gaza War Coverage |url=https://www.haaretz.com/israel-news/2023-11-23/ty-article/israels-communications-minister-threatens-haaretz-suggests-penalizing-its-war-coverage/0000018b-fd0c-de73-a9bb-ffefb9f10000#:~:text=Israel%27s%20Communications%20Minister%20Shlomo%20Karhi,of%20government%20notices%20in%20Haaretz. |website=Haaretz |access-date=25 November 2023}}{{cite web |last1=Karhi |first1=Shlomo |title=X post by Shlomo Karhi |url=https://twitter.com/shlomo_karhi/status/1727677351083827432?s=20 |website=X |access-date=23 November 2023}} On 23 November, ahead of the hostage-swap, National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir stated that any "expressions of joy" related to the release of Palestinian prisoners was "equivalent to backing terrorism."{{cite web |last1=Keller-Lynn |first1=Carrie |title=Ahead of slated Palestinian prisoner release, Ben Gvir tells police to shut down celebrations |url=https://www.timesofisrael.com/liveblog_entry/ahead-of-slated-palestinian-prisoner-release-ben-gvir-tells-police-to-shut-down-celebrations/# |website=The Times of Israel |access-date=25 November 2023}} On 29 November, police arrested activists at a Knesset protest opposing the government.{{cite web |title=Police arrest activist for bereaved families at Knesset protest against government |url=https://www.timesofisrael.com/police-arrest-activist-for-bereaved-families-at-knesset-protest-against-government/ |website=The Times of Israel |access-date=30 November 2023}}

On November 8, the Knesset criminalized the systematic and extended consumption of Hamas and ISIS publications that include statements of praise, sympathy or encouragement for acts of terrorism, or documentation of an act of terrorism. The law states that consumption of publications that is done randomly, innocently or for a legitimate purpose will not constitute prohibited consumption.{{cite web |title=Israeli parliament bill criminalises 'consumption of terrorist materials' |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/11/8/knesset-introduces-consumption-of-terrorist-publication-as-offense |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=8 November 2023 |archive-date=8 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231108174908/https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/11/8/knesset-introduces-consumption-of-terrorist-publication-as-offense |url-status=live }} Civil rights groups criticized the bill, stating it "invades the realm of personal thoughts and beliefs."{{cite web |title=Israel parliament criminalises 'consumption of terrorist materials' |url=https://aje.io/d5kugr?update=2472331 |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=8 November 2023 |archive-date=19 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231119194323/https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2023/11/8/israel-hamas-war-live-humanitarian-aid-targeted-amid-gaza-bombardment?update=2472331 |url-status=live }} On 2 December, an attorney at Adalah, an Israeli legal center, stated law enforcement was using the law to surveil and silence individuals, while Association for Civil Rights in Israel said it was "unprecedented in democratic countries."{{cite web |title=Is Israel criminalising Palestinian thoughts too, amid Gaza war? |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/12/2/is-israel-criminalising-palestinian-thoughts-too-amid-gaza-war |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=3 December 2023}} Akiva Eldar, a journalist at Haaretz, stated the bill "turned the journalists from doing honest, balanced reporting into Israeli patriots."{{cite web |title=Concerns raised over Israeli media rules on Gaza reporting |url=https://aje.io/fm3fq7?update=2578794 |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=25 December 2023}}{{cite web |url=https://www.israelnationalnews.com/news/379950 |title=New law bans consumption of Hamas, ISIS, publications |newspaper=INN |date= November 8, 2023 |author= |accessdate= December 28, 2023}}{{cite web |url=https://main.knesset.gov.il/EN/News/PressReleases/Pages/press81123o.aspx |title=Approved in final readings: Prohibition on systematic consumption of terrorist publications |newspaper=The Knesset |date=November 8, 2023 |author= |accessdate= December 28, 2023}}

On 17 January, 7amleh, the Arab Center for the Advancement of Social Media, reported that since 7 October, Israeli authorities had cracked down on Palestinians "for simply expressing their views or opinions on various online platforms, through a variety of measures including censorship, surveillance and arrests".{{cite web |title='Censorship, surveillance and arrests' |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2024/1/17/israels-war-on-gaza-live-brutality-of-gaza-crisis-unprecedented-un?update=2627649 |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=18 January 2024}}

The Ministry of Education announced in January 2024 that it was withdrawing funding for an annual Shavuot event in Megiddo, due to the event's host being Lucy Aharish, the Palestinian wife of Jewish Israeli celebrity Tsahi Halevi.{{cite web |last1=Cohen |first1=Ido David |title=Education Ministry Withdraws Funding of Jewish Event Over Arab Israeli Host |url=https://www.haaretz.com/israel-news/2024-01-16/ty-article/israeli-education-ministry-withdraws-funding-of-jewish-event-over-arab-israeli-host/0000018d-1216-d94e-abcf-3bf65cd70000 |website=Haaretz |access-date=22 January 2024}} The Knesset moved to expel Ofer Cassif for signing his support for South Africa's ICJ lawsuit, leading Adalah to state, "This case marks a direct extension of the nearly four-month-long crackdown on Palestinians' free speech and expressions of dissent".{{cite web |title=Cassif impeachment represents grave violation of right to vote: Legal group |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2024/1/30/israels-war-on-gaza-live-israeli-forces-detain-dozens-in-un-shelter-raid?update=2662247 |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=31 January 2024}}

On 5 February 2024, the Knesset passed a one-year extension barring Palestinians from receiving Israeli permanent resident status through marriage to Israelis.{{cite web |title=Israeli cabinet approves extension of citizenship law targeting Palestinians |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2024/2/5/israels-war-on-gaza-live-israeli-strikes-level-homes-in-deir-el-balah?update=2678914 |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=7 February 2024}} On 19 March 2024, Itamar Ben-Gvir stated that 100,000 new Israeli gun licenses had been approved since 7 October.{{cite web |last1=Fink |first1=Rachel |title=Israel's Far-right National Security Minister Celebrates Handing Out 100k Gun Permits Since Oct. 7 |url=https://www.haaretz.com/israel-news/2024-03-19/ty-article/.premium/far-right-israeli-minister-celebrates-handing-out-100k-gun-permits-since-oct-7/0000018e-5682-dc6f-adff-df87a3ae0000 |website=Haaretz |access-date=22 March 2024}}

{{see also|Israel and the United Nations}}

In the aftermath of the 7 October attack and during the subsequent conflict, the Israeli government criticized the United Nations. On multiple occasions, Israeli officials called for the resignation of UN secretary-general António Guterres.{{cite web |last1=Iordache |first1=Ruxandra |title=Israel envoy calls for resignation of UN chief who said Hamas attack 'did not happen in a vacuum' |url=https://www.cnbc.com/2023/10/25/antonio-guterres-israel-envoy-calls-for-un-chiefs-resignation.html |website=CNBC |date=25 October 2023 |access-date=27 December 2023}} It also moved to limit the issuance of travel visas to UN representatives.{{cite news |last1=Abrams |first1=Rachel |title=Israel moves to limit visas for U.N. employees. |work=The New York Times |date=26 December 2023 |url=https://www.nytimes.com/live/2023/12/26/world/israel-hamas-war-gaza-news/israel-moves-to-limit-visas-for-un-employees?smid=url-share |access-date=27 December 2023}} Lynn Hastings, the UN Humanitarian Coordinator for the Occupied Palestinian Territory, was forced to leave Israel after her visa was revoked.{{cite web |title=US welcomes new UN humanitarian coordinator appointment |url=https://aje.io/trvz4m?update=2582029 |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=27 December 2023}} The United Nations criticized Israel for bombing its facilities and killing 142 UN employees, while Israel stated the UN was biased.{{cite web |last1=Cornish |first1=Chloe |title=Israel-UN relations plunge to new low as Gaza war rages |url=https://www.ft.com/content/c5104a4d-3468-4cda-9e00-0cbb6fa5520c?shareType=nongift |website=Financial Times |date=27 December 2023 |access-date=27 December 2023}}

On 4 January 2024, Israel Hayom reported Knesset members were seeking to halt global funding for UNRWA, with MK Sharren Haskel stating they sought "to stop funds which are being transferred from various countries to this organization, and remove UNRWA’s mask".{{cite web |title=Israeli parliament group lobbies to halt global funding for UNRWA |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2024/1/4/israel-hamas-war-live-bloody-day-for-hezbollah-tensions-with-israel-soar?update=2596988 |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=5 January 2024}} On 6 January, former Israeli foreign ministry official Noga Arbell stated, "It will not be possible to win the war if we do not destroy UNRWA. And this destruction must begin immediately".{{cite web |title=Israeli official urges for destruction of UN agency for Palestinian refugees |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2024/1/6/israel-war-on-gaza-live-israeli-forces-raid-occupied-west-bank-towns?update=2600376 |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=7 January 2024}} On 26 January, Israel alleged that 12 UNRWA staff members had been involved with the 7 October attack, based on "interrogations of militants".{{cite web |last1=Magid |first1=Jason |title=Israel wants UNRWA out of Gaza after staffers fired for involvement in Oct. 7 onslaught |url=https://www.timesofisrael.com/israel-to-seek-to-end-unrwa-gaza-activities-after-staffers-fired-for-oct-7-involvement/ |website=Times of Israel |access-date=28 January 2024}} This led to their immediate dismissal and to the U.S. pausing all funding to the agency.{{cite web |title=UNRWA probes employees over suspected involvement in October 7 attack |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/1/26/unrwa-probes-employees-over-suspected-involvement-in-october-7-attacks |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=27 January 2024}} The following day, the UK, Italy, Finland, Australia, Germany, and Canada paused their funding to UNRWA.{{cite web |last1=Srivastava |first1=Mehul |title=More countries pull funding from UN agency over October 7 attack allegations |url=https://www.ft.com/content/8576a0f1-a57c-4935-899b-84026f9efc5e?shareType=nongift |website=Financial Times |date=28 January 2024 |access-date=28 January 2024}}{{cite web |title=UNRWA comms director calls funding pulls 'collective punishment' |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2024/1/27/israels-war-on-gaza-live-hospital-blackout-amid-khan-younis-assault?update=2653755 |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=28 January 2024}} In response, Foreign Minister Israel Katz stated Israel "aims to promoting a policy ensuring that UNRWA will not be a part of the day after".{{cite web |title=Israel says it wants to stop UNRWA work in Gaza after war |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2024/1/27/israels-war-on-gaza-live-hospital-blackout-amid-khan-younis-assault?update=2652705 |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=28 January 2024}}

Israel accused the World Health Organization of colluding with Hamas, leading the WHO Secretary General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus to state, "Such false claims are harmful and can endanger our staff who are risking their lives to serve the vulnerable."{{cite web |title=WHO Rejects Israel's Claim Of 'Collusion' With Hamas |url=https://www.barrons.com/news/who-rejects-israel-s-claim-of-collusion-with-hamas-58cb65a5?refsec=topics_afp-news |website=Barron's |publisher=Agence France Presse |access-date=27 January 2024}}

Israeli Ambassador to the UN Gilad Erdan accused the Red Cross of colluding with Hamas, stating, "Hamas is committing heinous and abhorrent war crimes, and the Red Cross covers it up".{{cite web |title=Erdan to ICRC rep: Red Cross 'covers up' Hamas's heinous crimes |url=https://www.jpost.com/israel-hamas-war/article-781695 |website=The Jerusalem Post |date=11 January 2024 |access-date=27 January 2024}}

Statements by Israeli government officials drew international scrutiny, including many which were described as genocidal.{{cite web |title=UN experts point to evidence of 'genocidal incitement' against Palestinians |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/un-experts-point-evidence-genocidal-incitement-against-palestinians-2023-11-16/ |website=Reuters |access-date=9 December 2023}} On 9 October, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant referred to Hamas militants in the Gaza Strip as "human animals", sparking controversy.{{Cite web |date=2023-10-09 |title=Israeli Defense Minister Announces Siege On Gaza To Fight 'Human Animals' |url=https://www.huffpost.com/entry/israel-defense-minister-human-animals-gaza-palestine_n_6524220ae4b09f4b8d412e0a |access-date=2023-11-02 |website=HuffPost |language=en |archive-date=2023-11-01 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231101231423/https://www.huffpost.com/entry/israel-defense-minister-human-animals-gaza-palestine_n_6524220ae4b09f4b8d412e0a |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |date=2023-10-09 |title=Israeli defense minister orders 'complete siege' on Gaza after Hamas surprise attack |url=https://www.pbs.org/newshour/world/israeli-defense-minister-orders-complete-siege-on-gaza-after-hamas-surprise-attack |access-date=2023-11-02 |website=PBS NewsHour |language=en-us |archive-date=2023-10-31 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231031005909/https://www.pbs.org/newshour/world/israeli-defense-minister-orders-complete-siege-on-gaza-after-hamas-surprise-attack |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |date=2023-10-12 |title=Israeli envoy: Hamas 'animals' must be destroyed |url=https://www.politico.eu/article/ron-prosor-israel-evoy-hamas-animals-must-be-destroyed/ |access-date=2023-11-02 |website=POLITICO |language=en |archive-date=2023-11-02 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231102011538/https://www.politico.eu/article/ron-prosor-israel-evoy-hamas-animals-must-be-destroyed/ |url-status=live }} On 17 December, the chair of the Metula Regional council stated Gaza should be left "desolate and destroyed" and turned into a museum, leading the Auschwitz-Birkenau State Museum to condemn him.{{cite web |title=Auschwitz slams Israeli council head's plans for Gaza Strip |url=https://www.jpost.com/israel-hamas-war/article-778465 |website=The Jerusalem Post |date=18 December 2023 |access-date=18 December 2023}}

Several Knesset members drew headlines for their statements. MK Meirav Ben-Ari caused controversy when she stated, "The children in Gaza brought it upon themselves."{{cite web |title=Israel-Palestine: More than 1,000 Palestinian children killed in Gaza air strikes, NGO reveals |url=https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/israel-palestine-more-than-1000-palestinian-children-killed-gaza-airstrikes-ngo-reveals |website=Middle East Eye |access-date=22 December 2023}} In a post on X, MK Galit Distel-Atbaryan called for erasing Gaza "from the face of the earth," and that "the Gazan monsters will fly to the southern fence and try to enter Egyptian territory. or they will die."{{cite web |title=A forced exodus from Gaza to Egypt? Israeli 'concept paper' fuels outrage |url=https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/palestinians-forced-gaza-egypt-israel-proposal-outrage-rcna122934 |website=NBC News |date=2 November 2023 |access-date=22 December 2023}}{{Cite tweet |user=GalitDistel |number=1719689095230730656 |title=Erasing all of Gaza from the face of the earth. That the Gazan monsters will fly to the southern fence and try to enter Egyptian territory. or they will die. And their death is evil. Gaza should be erased. And fire and smoke on the heads of the Nazis in Judea and Samaria. Haron is also a Jew who will shake the earth of the world. A vengeful and cruel IDF is needed here. Anything less is immoral. Just unethical.}} MK Ariel Kallner called for a Nakba, writing on social media, "Right now, one goal: Nakba! A Nakba that will overshadow the Nakba of 48."{{cite web |last1=Krauss |first1=Joseph |title=Israel's recent call for mass evacuation echoes catastrophic 1948 Palestinian exodus |url=https://www.pbs.org/newshour/world/in-israels-call-for-mass-evacuation-palestinians-hear-echoes-of-their-original-catastrophic-exodus |website=PBS |date=13 October 2023 |access-date=22 December 2023}} Nissim Vaturi, the Knesset deputy speaker, called for the military to "Burn Gaza now."{{cite web |title=Burn Gaza now,' deputy speaker of Israel's Knesset says |url=https://aje.io/2jzuwp?update=2495105 |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=22 December 2023}} On 27 December, MK Avigdor Lieberman stated Israel should tear down the Gaza-Egyptian border, stating, "As soon as there is no obstacle there, I estimate one-and-a-half million Gazans will leave for Sinai and we will not disturb anyone".{{cite web |title='Won't disturb anyone': Israeli lawmaker advocates Gaza relocation |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2023/12/27/israel-hamas-war-live-israel-vows-to-intensify-gaza-fighting?update=2583252 |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=27 December 2023}} In an interview with Kol Barama radio station on 10 January, Nissim Vaturi stated, "Gaza and its people must be burned".{{cite web |title=Israeli deputy speaker says 'Gaza and its people must be burned' |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2024/1/10/israels-war-on-gaza-us-laments-gaza-deaths-but-opposes-ceasefire?update=2608271 |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=11 January 2024}}

On 14 January, MK Zvi Sukkot drew headlines for stating, "At least in the northern Gaza Strip we first have to conquer, annex, destroy all the houses, build neighborhoods".{{cite news |last1=Shpigel |first1=Noa |title=Israeli Lawmakers Say It Out Loud: Mass Migration From Gaza and Jewish Resettlement |url=https://www.haaretz.com/israel-news/2024-01-08/ty-article/.premium/migration-from-gaza-and-settlement-by-jews-israeli-lawmakers-dont-hide-their-wishes/0000018c-e924-d765-ab9d-f97d6bdb0000 |website=Haaretz |access-date=14 January 2024}} One week later, on 21 January, Sukkot stated, "It is necessary to occupy and annex at least part of the northern Gaza Strip and to establish Israeli settlements there."{{cite web |title=Palestinian state will endanger Israel's existence: Lawmaker |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2024/1/21/israels-war-on-gaza-live-deadly-israeli-attacks-across-gaza?update=2637087 |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=22 January 2024}} On 22 February, May Golan stated she was "personally proud of the ruins of Gaza".{{cite web |title=US Muslim group calls on Biden to end support for 'genocide' |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2024/2/22/israels-war-on-gaza-live-gaza-has-become-a-death-zone-says-who-chief?update=2726903 |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=23 February 2024}}

Some progressive politicians, such as Gilad Kariv, called for the creation of a sovereign Palestinian state.{{cite web |title=Israeli politician says country's final goal should be a 'sovereign Palestinian framework' |url=https://aje.io/cvvtyk?update=2573476 |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=23 December 2023}}

Prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu also drew headlines for his statements during the war. Notably, Netanyahu stated the war was "a struggle between the children of light and the children of darkness, between humanity and the law of the jungle."{{cite web |title=Excerpt from PM Netanyahu's remarks at the opening of the Winter Assembly of the 25th Knesset's Second Session |url=https://www.gov.il/en/departments/news/excerpt-from-pm-netanyahu-s-remarks-at-the-opening-of-the-knesset-s-winter-assembly-16-oct-2023 |website=Ministry of Foreign Affairs |publisher=Government of Israel |access-date=22 December 2023}}{{Cite tweet |author-link= |user=IsraeliPM |number=1713949754948718657 |date=16 October 2023 |title=This is a struggle between the children of light and the children of darkness, between humanity and the law of the jungle. |script-title= |trans-title= |language=en |retweet= |location= |access-date= |link= |url-status= |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231017150448/https://twitter.com/IsraeliPM/status/1713949754948718657?s=20 |archive-date=17 October 2023 |quote= |ref=}} Netanyahu also termed the conflict as "Israel's second War of Independence".{{cite web |title='This is Israel's second War of Independence, it will be long and tough' |url=https://www.i24news.tv/en/news/israel-at-war/1698517790-this-is-israel-s-second-war-of-independence-it-will-be-long-and-tough |website=i24 News |access-date=22 December 2023}} Netanyahu was criticized as calling for genocide when he compared Palestinians to Amalek, stating, "slay both man and woman, infant and suckling".{{cite news |last1=Krug |first1=Joshua |title=Comparing Hamas to Amalek, our biblical nemesis, will ultimately hurt Israel |url=https://jweekly.com/2023/11/02/comparing-hamas-to-amalek-our-biblical-nemesis-will-ultimately-hurt-israel/ |newspaper=J |date=2 November 2023 |access-date=22 December 2023}}{{cite news |title=Netanyahu cites 'Amalek' Theory to justify Gaza Killings |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/middle-east/netanyahu-cites-amalek-theory-to-justify-gaza-killings/articleshow/104802548.cms?from=mdr |website=Times of India | date=29 October 2023 |access-date=22 December 2023}} He also drew controversy for stating, "I am the only one who will prevent a Palestinian state" after the war.{{cite web |title=PM lobbying Likud MKs, saying only he can prevent a Palestinian state in Gaza, West Bank – report |url=https://www.timesofisrael.com/liveblog_entry/pm-lobbying-likud-mks-saying-only-he-can-prevent-a-palestinian-state-in-gaza-west-bank-report/ |website=The Times of Israel |access-date=22 December 2023}} In December 2023, Netanyahu said that Israel should support the "voluntary migration" of Palestinians from Gaza.{{cite news |title=Israeli MK: Countries in South America, Africa Offered to Accept Refugees From Gaza, in Exchange for Payment |url=https://www.haaretz.com/israel-news/2023-12-26/ty-article/israeli-mk-israel-has-received-inquiries-from-countries-to-accept-refugees-from-gaza/0000018c-a50e-d408-a99f-ed5ec4f00000 |work=Haaretz |date=26 December 2023}}{{cite news |title=Netanyahu pushes for 'voluntary migration' for Palestinians in Gaza: Israeli media |url=https://www.aa.com.tr/en/middle-east/netanyahu-pushes-for-voluntary-migration-for-palestinians-in-gaza-israeli-media/3092389 |work=Anadolu Agency |date=26 December 2023}}

Cabinet member and other top-level government officials caused controversy for their statements in response to the 7 October attack and during the war. Eli Cohen, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, drew headlines for stating that after the war, "the territory of Gaza will also decrease."{{cite web |last1=Magid |first1=Jacob |title=Foreign minister: At war's end, not only will Hamas be gone, but Gaza's territory will shrink |url=https://www.timesofisrael.com/liveblog_entry/foreign-minister-at-wars-end-not-only-will-hamas-be-gone-but-gazas-territory-will-shrink/#:~:text=Foreign%20Minister%20Eli%20Cohen%20tells,of%20Gaza%20will%20also%20decrease |website=The Times of Israel |access-date=23 December 2023}} The Minister of Agriculture, Avi Dichter, caused controversy for his statement, "We're Rolling Out Nakba 2023."{{cite news |last1=Hauser Tov |first1=Michael | title=Israel News 'We're Rolling Out Nakba 2023,' Israeli Minister Says on Northern Gaza Strip Evacuation |url=https://www.haaretz.com/israel-news/2023-11-12/ty-article/israeli-security-cabinet-member-calls-north-gaza-evacuation-nakba-2023/0000018b-c2be-dea2-a9bf-d2be7b670000# |website=Haaretz |access-date=23 December 2023}} The Minister of Heritage Amihai Eliyahu drew headlines for stating, "They can go to Ireland or deserts, the monsters in Gaza should find a solution by themselves."{{cite web |title=Far-right minister: Nuking Gaza is an option, population should 'go to Ireland or deserts' |url=https://www.timesofisrael.com/liveblog_entry/far-right-minister-nuking-gaza-is-an-option-population-should-go-to-ireland-or-deserts/ |website=The Times of Israel |access-date=23 December 2023}} Gilad Erdan, Israel's UN ambassador, made several notable statements, including, "Israel is not at war with human beings, we are at war with monsters."{{cite web |title=Israeli UN Ambassador shows video of Thai worker attack to oppose UNGA ignoring Hamas |url=https://www.nationthailand.com/world/middle-east-africa/40032287 |website=The Nation |date=27 October 2023 |access-date=23 December 2023}}

Israeli president Isaac Herzog drew criticisms of admitting to collective punishment when he stated, "It is an entire nation out there that is responsible."{{cite web |title='No Innocent Civilians in Gaza', Israel President Says as Northern Gaza Struggles to Flee Israeli Bombs |url=https://thewire.in/world/northern-gaza-israel-palestine-conflict |website=The Wire |access-date=23 December 2023}}{{cite news |last1=McGreal |first1=Chris |title=The language being used to describe Palestinians is genocidal |url=https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2023/oct/16/the-language-being-used-to-describe-palestinians-is-genocidal |website=The Guardian |date=16 October 2023 |access-date=23 December 2023}} Israel Katz, the Minister of Energy, drew similar criticisms when he stated the people of Gaza "will not receive a drop of water or a single battery until they leave the world".{{cite web |title=What have Israeli officials said about Palestinians in Gaza? |url=https://www.newarab.com/news/what-have-israeli-officials-said-about-palestinians-gaza |website=The New Arab |date=15 October 2023 |access-date=23 December 2023}} Shlomo Karhi, the Minister of Communications, suggested soldiers would return to Israel "only after they have cut off" the foreskins of Palestinian men.{{Cite tweet |user=shlomo_karhi |language=he |number=1725504217148797065 |title=David added a hundred Philistine foreskins as revenge for plugging the wells with dirt. Our fighters, who went to war for the house and to take revenge for the terrible massacre carried out by the Nazi terrorists, will cover them in their tunnels with dirt, and will return to peace with the abductees in AZ, only after they have cut off all these cursed foreskins.}} Itamar Ben-Gvir, the Minister of Defense, drew headlines when he stated, "What’s needed here is an occupation."{{cite web |title=Israeli minister says Gaza should be occupied: Report |url=https://aje.io/bt6i03?update=2480792 |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=23 December 2023}} In an interview with Israeli Army Radio, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich called Gaza a "ghetto" that should be resettled.{{cite web |last1=Karanth |first1=Sanjana |title=Senior Far-Right Israeli Official Admits Gaza Is A 'Ghetto' For Palestinians |url=https://news.yahoo.com/senior-far-israeli-official-admits-004155800.html |website=Yahoo! News |date=January 2024 |publisher=Huffpost |access-date=1 January 2024}}

In comments made to Maariv, Bezalel Smotrich stated, "The push for the establishment of a Palestinian state is a push for the next massacre."{{cite web |title=Smotrich to Israeli media: Palestinian state will lead to 'next massacre' |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2024/1/20/israels-war-on-gaza-live-israel-denied-70-of-aid-to-north-gaza-says-un?update=2636084 |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=21 January 2024}} In May 2024, Ben-Gvir called to "end the problem" and "return to Gaza now!"{{cite web |last1=Sharon |first1=Jeremy |title=Ben Gvir calls to 'encourage emigration,' resettle Gaza at ultra-nationalist rally |url=https://www.timesofisrael.com/ben-gvir-calls-to-encourage-emigration-resettle-gaza-at-ultra-nationalist-rally/#:~:text=“To%20end%20the%20problem%2C%20in,“And%20second%2C%20encourage%20emigration. |website=Times of Israel |access-date=19 May 2024}}

Israel's ambassador to the United Kingdom, Tzipi Hotovely, drew condemnation from British MP Afzal Khan, after responding "Do you have another solution?" to an interviewer asking if she was calling for the total destruction of Gaza.{{cite web |title=British MP calls on foreign secretary to condemn comments by Israeli ambassador |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2024/1/4/israel-hamas-war-live-bloody-day-for-hezbollah-tensions-with-israel-soar?update=2598249 |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=5 January 2024}}

Several former military and government officials drew attention for their statements related to the attack and subsequent war. Giora Eiland, a former general, stated, "Creating a severe humanitarian crisis is a necessary means to achieve the goal. Gaza will become a place where no human being can exist."{{cite web |title=Why Israel's ban on fuel to Gaza isn't about stopping Hamas |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/10/25/gaza-is-out-of-fuel-out-of-time-under-israels-bombardment |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=23 December 2023}} Dan Gillerman, the former Israeli ambassador to the UN stated, "I am very puzzled by the constant concern which the world is showing for the Palestinian people, and is actually showing for these horrible inhuman animals who have done the worst atrocities that this century has seen"{{cite web |title=Former Israeli ambassador to UN calls Palestinians 'horrible, inhuman animals' |url=https://english.alarabiya.net/News/middle-east/2023/10/26/Former-Israeli-ambassador-to-UN-calls-Palestinians-horrible-inhuman-animals-#:~:text=%22I%20am%20very%20puzzled%20by,people%2C%22%20says%20Dan%20Gillerman. |website=al-Arabiya | date=26 October 2023 |access-date=23 December 2023}}{{Cite tweet |user=SkyNews |number=1717279204130037806 |date=25 October 2023 |author=Sky News |title="I am very puzzled by the constant concern which the world is showing for the Palestinian people," says Dan Gillerman}}

In an interview with Jewish News Syndicate, retired Israeli Major General Itzhak Brik stated "All of our missiles, the ammunition, the precision-guided bombs, all the airplanes and bombs, it’s all from the US. The minute they turn off the tap, you can’t keep fighting. You have no capability."{{cite web |last1=Lanard |first1=Noah |title=How Joe Biden Became America's Top Israel Hawk |url=https://www.motherjones.com/politics/2023/12/how-joe-biden-became-americas-top-israel-hawk/ |website=Mother Jones |access-date=1 January 2024}}

Michael Oren, former Israeli ambassador to the US, former member of the Knesset, and former Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister's Office, wrote: "Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad made a serious miscalculation".{{cite web |url=https://www.israelhayom.com/opinions/hamas-miscalculation-will-come-back-to-haunt-it/ |title=Hamas' miscalculation will come back to haunt it |newspaper=Israel Hayom |date=October 10, 2023 |author=Michael Oren |accessdate= January 2, 2024}} Aviv Kohavi stated that a full investigation was needed to determine how militants had breached Israel's walls around Gaza.{{cite web |title=Israel's ex-military chief says his leadership should be examined |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2024/1/15/israels-war-on-gaza-live-hunger-cold-threaten-more-lives-in-gaza?update=2622205 |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=16 January 2024}} Former-Israeli Defence Minister Avigdor Liberman suggested the West Bank should be given to Jordan, and the Gaza Strip to Egypt.{{cite web |title=Liberman suggests giving Gaza to Egypt, West Bank to Jordan |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2024/2/2/israels-war-on-gaza-live-israel-downplays-settler-violence-in-west-bank?update=2671461 |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=4 February 2024}}

The official Israeli government and military social media accounts were highly active during the war.{{cite web |last1=Martin |first1=Liv |title=Israel floods social media to shape opinion around the war |url=https://www.politico.eu/article/israel-social-media-opinion-hamas-war/ |website=Politico |date=17 October 2023 |access-date=13 December 2023}} The Ministry of Foreign Affairs funded a pro-war PR campaign online.{{cite web |last1=Newsham |first1=Jack |title=Israel launches a PR offensive amid its Gaza bombardment, paying for ads on YouTube, X, and even Angry Birds |url=https://www.businessinsider.com/israel-youtube-x-advertising-pr-offensive-gaza-hamas-bombardment-2023-10 |website=Business Insider |access-date=18 December 2023}}{{cite web |last1=Satter |first1=Raphael |title=Graphic pro-Israel ads make their way into children's video games |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/graphic-pro-israel-ads-make-their-way-into-childrens-video-games-2023-10-30/ |website=Reuters |access-date=18 December 2023}} On 12 December, an investigation by the Israeli newspaper Haaretz found the Israeli military was running a Telegram channel called "72 Virgins - Uncensored".{{cite news |last1=Kubovich |first1=Yaniv |title=Graphic Videos and Incitement: How the IDF Is Misleading Israelis on Telegram |url=https://www.haaretz.com/israel-news/security-aviation/2023-12-12/ty-article/.premium/graphic-videos-and-incitement-how-the-idf-is-misleading-israelis-on-telegram/0000018c-5ab5-df2f-adac-febd01c30000# |website=Haaretz |access-date=13 December 2023}} The IDF admitted to running the Telegram channel.{{cite web |last1=Kubovich |first1=Yaniv |title=Israeli Army Admits Running Unauthorized Graphic Gaza Influence Op |url=https://www.haaretz.com/israel-news/security-aviation/2024-02-04/ty-article/.premium/israeli-army-its-admits-staff-was-behind-graphic-gaza-telegram-channel/0000018d-70b4-dd6e-a98d-f4b6a9c00000 |website=Haaretz |access-date=5 February 2024}} Posts on the IDF channel had included statements about "exterminating the roaches" of Gaza and hearing "the crunch of their bones".{{cite web |last1=Galvin |first1=Christopher |title=Israeli Military Exposed as Mastermind Behind Infamous Anti-Palestine Social Media Account: Report |url=https://themessenger.com/news/israeli-military-exposed-as-mastermind-behind-infamous-anti-palestine-social-media-account-report |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231212160859/https://themessenger.com/news/israeli-military-exposed-as-mastermind-behind-infamous-anti-palestine-social-media-account-report |url-status=dead |archive-date=December 12, 2023 |website=The Messenger |date=12 December 2023 |access-date=13 December 2023}} In January 2024, the Israeli government reportedly purchased a technological system for conducting large-scale influence campaigns online.{{cite web |last1=Benjakob |first1=Omer |title=Israel Has Bought a Mass Online Influence System to Counter Antisemitism, Hamas Atrocity Denial |url=https://www.haaretz.com/israel-news/security-aviation/2024-01-16/ty-article-magazine/.premium/israel-bought-mass-online-influence-system-to-counter-antisemitism-hamas-atrocity-denial/0000018d-0d31-db13-affd-7d3532830000 |website=Haaretz |access-date=22 January 2024}}

{{further|Effects of the Israel–Hamas war|International reactions to the Gaza war}}

Israel's response to the 7 October attack elicited international reactions. In January 2024, the German Federal Foreign Office criticized senior Israeli government officials for their role in a conference advocating for the settling of Gaza, stating, "We condemn in the strongest possible terms the participation of parts of the Israeli government at this resettlement conference and clearly reject the statements made there."{{cite web |title=Germany denounces Israeli settlement plans in postwar Gaza |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2024/1/29/israels-war-on-gaza-live-us-vows-to-respond-to-killing-of-troops?update=2658067 |website=Al Jazeera |access-date=30 January 2024}}

• U.S. government response to the September 11 attacks
• International reactions to the Gaza war
• United States support for Israel in the Gaza war
• Ninth Extraordinary Session of the Islamic Summit Conference
• Gaza war protests

{{reflist}}

{{Gaza war}}

{{Portalbar|Israel|Palestine|Politics}}

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Category:2020s in Israeli politics