Israeli media reported that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will order the complete takeover of the Palestinian area as he prepared to present a new war plan for Gaza on Tuesday that would demolish Hamas and ensure the release of dozens of captives.
Although there has been no official confirmation of the schedule, Israeli media reported that Netanyahu will shortly meet with senior military and security officials to deliver new directions.
“Netanyahu wants the Israeli army to conquer the entire Gaza Strip, including those where hostages may be held,” according to a report by national broadcaster Kan and Channel 12.
“Several cabinet members who spoke with the prime minister confirmed that he has decided to extend the fight to areas where hostages might be held.”
Backlash has already been generated by the idea. The Palestinian Authority and Hamas rejected the proposal, claiming they are still committed to a ceasefire agreement but accusing the United States and Israel of impeding talks.
According to Gaza’s health ministry, more than 60,000 Palestinians have perished since the conflict started after Hamas launched its cross-border onslaught on October 7, 2023, while 1,219 Israelis lost their lives in the initial strike. In order to guarantee the safe return of the 49 hostages currently detained in Gaza, Israeli hostage families are now calling for a quick ceasefire.
While Netanyahu’s far-right supporters advocate for reoccupation, humanitarian organizations and a number of European countries are calling for a ceasefire and the recognition of Palestinian statehood on a global scale.
Israel’s Coordinator of Government Activities in The Territories (COGAT) declared a limited restoration of private sector commerce with Gaza amid starvation threats, permitting closely watched supplies of food, infant formula, and personal hygiene items under tight supervision.
Airdrops and aid convoys have also started up again. Netanyahu reaffirmed on Monday that Israel’s military objectives are still to destroy Hamas, free captives, and eliminate Gaza as a danger in spite of mounting pressure.
Hundreds of former security officials and other internal critics, meanwhile, have called on the United States to pressure Netanyahu to terminate the conflict, claiming that military objectives have already been met and that any escalation may put hostages in risk.
