Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held a meeting with top security officials to outline a new approach for the ongoing conflict in Gaza, his office announced on Tuesday. Reports suggest that Netanyahu is in favor of a complete military intervention in the region despite international calls for a ceasefire to alleviate the dire living conditions in Gaza.
Amid failed mediation attempts between Israel and Hamas, the Palestinian health authorities reported that Israeli gunfire resulted in the deaths of at least 20 individuals seeking aid and wounded 20 more in separate incidents. Additionally, eight people succumbed to starvation or malnutrition within the past day, with a total of 80 casualties from recent Israeli attacks.
During the three-hour security discussion, Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir presented military campaign options to Netanyahu, with Defense Minister Israel Katz and Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer also in attendance. Speculation arose that the cabinet might convene on Thursday to deliberate on a potential full-scale occupation of Gaza.
While Netanyahu’s inclination towards seizing control of the entire territory was disclosed, the duration and objectives of such a move remain uncertain. The UN expressed deep concern over reports of expanded military operations in Gaza, with U.S. President Donald Trump refraining from explicitly endorsing Israel’s plans.
Hamas recently released a distressing video of Israeli captive Evyatar David, highlighting the ongoing hostage crisis. International pressure persists on Hamas to release the remaining hostages, with Israel’s military facing strain due to prolonged conflict in Gaza.
The possibility of a complete Israeli takeover is viewed as a strategic tactic to pressure Hamas, prompting calls for international intervention to avert potential escalation. Amidst the escalating tensions, concerns have been raised about the repercussions of an extensive military intervention on the civilian population in Gaza.