Israeli PM defies protests and international pressure, pledging swift operation to dismantle Hamas strongholds in Gaza City and central camps.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced a new military plan to expand operations in Gaza, calling it “the best way to end the war” despite growing domestic protests and mounting international criticism.
Speaking at a press conference in Jerusalem on Sunday, Netanyahu said the operation would be launched on a “fairly short timetable” with the goal of dismantling the two remaining Hamas strongholds in Gaza City and the central camps, while creating secure corridors and safe zones for civilians to evacuate.
“Israel has no choice but to finish the job and complete the defeat of Hamas,” Netanyahu declared. “We have about 70 to 75 percent of Gaza under military control, but these two strongholds must fall.”
The announcement came ahead of a UN Security Council meeting on Gaza and just a day after thousands of protesters filled Tel Aviv, accusing the government of prolonging the war and endangering the lives of hostages. Critics argue the plan could jeopardize efforts to secure the release of the 49 hostages still held in Gaza, 27 of whom are believed to be dead.
While some Israelis demand an immediate ceasefire and a hostage-release deal, others—particularly members of Netanyahu’s far-right coalition—push for harsher measures. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich called the plan “half-hearted,” while National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir advocated for “full Gaza control, transfer, and colonization.”
Internationally, the backlash has been swift. UN Assistant Secretary-General Miroslav Jenca warned that the plan could trigger “another calamity” in Gaza, leading to mass displacement, civilian deaths, and further destruction. Foreign governments, including some of Israel’s allies, continue to press for a negotiated truce to address the humanitarian crisis and prevent famine.
Netanyahu, however, remains resolute: “We will win the war, with or without the support of others. Our goal is not to occupy Gaza but to establish a civilian administration not linked to Hamas or the Palestinian Authority.”
The war, now in its 22nd month, began after Hamas’s October 2023 attack on Israel, which killed 1,219 people. Since then, Gaza’s health ministry reports at least 61,430 Palestinians have been killed, with the United Nations deeming the figures reliable. On Sunday alone, Gaza’s civil defense agency reported 27 deaths from Israeli strikes, including 11 near aid distribution centers.