Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday insisted that Israel must fully defeat Hamas in Gaza to secure the release of remaining hostages, just days before a key cabinet meeting on a revised war strategy.
Speaking during a visit to a military training site, Netanyahu said:
“It is necessary to complete the defeat of the enemy in Gaza, to free all our hostages and to ensure that Gaza will no longer pose a threat to Israel.”
His office later confirmed he held a three-hour security meeting with army chief Eyal Zamir, though no new war plan was publicly announced.
Total Gaza Occupation on the Table
Public broadcaster Kan reported that Netanyahu is considering ordering the full occupation of the Gaza Strip, including areas where hostages may be held. However, some analysts, including those from Channel 12, speculate the leaked plan may be a negotiating tactic.
Global Alarm and UN Warnings
The proposal has triggered outrage from both the Palestinian Authority and Hamas, with the latter stating such a move would not alter its demands for a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza.
UN Assistant Secretary-General Miroslav Jenca warned the UN Security Council that expanding the war could have “catastrophic consequences” for both civilians and hostages.
Rising Casualties and Humanitarian Crisis
Since the war began following Hamas’s 7 October 2023 attack that killed 1,219 people and led to the abduction of 251 hostages, Israel’s offensive has left over 61,000 Palestinians dead, according to the Gaza Health Ministry.
Netanyahu is facing domestic pressure from the families of hostages, many of whom are demanding a ceasefire to bring their loved ones home. The International Committee of the Red Cross has offered to deliver aid and medical support to captives—pending agreement between Israel and Hamas.
Aid Accusations and Gaza’s Struggles
Despite easing its blockade in May, Israel has come under fire for allegedly exploiting humanitarian aid for political purposes. UN rapporteurs on Tuesday called for the dismantling of the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, citing concerns over “covert military agendas”.
The Israeli military body COGAT said it would permit limited private trade into Gaza, allowing a select group of merchants to bring in essential items.
However, tragedy struck again Tuesday when Israeli forces allegedly opened fire near aid distribution sites, killing at least 56 Palestinians, according to Gaza’s civil defence. The Israeli army claimed it fired warning shots and said it was unaware of any resulting casualties.
The conflict continues to escalate amid fierce internal divisions in Israel, international demands for a ceasefire, and worsening humanitarian conditions in Gaza.