Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is reportedly planning a full occupation of the Gaza Strip, according to Israeli media outlets including i24NEWS, The Jerusalem Post, Channel 12, and Ynet. Sources say the Israeli military will expand its operations across Gaza, even in areas where Hamas hostages are believed to be held.
Channel 12’s chief political analyst Amit Sega quoted a senior official as saying, “The decision has been made. Hamas won’t release more hostages without total surrender, and we won’t surrender.” The official added that failing to act now could leave captives to starve and Gaza under Hamas control.
The Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the reported plan, urging the international community to intervene. The ministry warned that this move could be a test to gauge reactions or a serious step toward a Gaza military occupation.
Netanyahu is set to meet his war cabinet Tuesday to discuss military actions as the conflict nears two years. Despite growing international pressure for more humanitarian aid, Gaza’s humanitarian crisis worsens. At least 74 Palestinians, including 36 aid seekers, were killed in Israeli attacks on Monday.
Israel says 49 hostages, including 27 believed dead, remain in Gaza. Netanyahu insists on defeating Hamas and securing all captives. “We must fight together until Gaza no longer threatens Israel,” he said.
Senior Hamas leader Osama Hamdan blamed Netanyahu’s government for risking hostage lives. And accused the US and Western nations of ignoring Israeli actions.
Since October 2023, over 60,930 Palestinians, including 18,430 children, have died. Netanyahu Gaza full occupation. The Gaza blockade has worsened starvation, and talks for hostage negotiations remain stalled. Reports indicate the next phase may involve an expanded Israeli ground operation to tighten the Gaza siege and fully occupy the territory.
