Netanyahu Proposes Full Reoccupation of Gaza Strip
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is reportedly preparing to propose a complete reoccupation of the Gaza Strip during an upcoming meeting with his security cabinet, according to Israeli media sources. A senior official was quoted saying, "The die has been cast. We're going for the full conquest of the Gaza Strip – and defeating Hamas."
Military Leadership Divided Over the Plan
Reports indicate that the Israeli army chief and other senior military leaders oppose this plan. However, the unnamed official responded firmly, stating, "If that doesn't work for the chief of staff, he should resign." This highlights a significant rift within Israel’s security establishment regarding the best approach to the ongoing conflict.
Hostage Families and Public Opinion
The families of hostages held in Gaza have expressed deep concern that such a military operation could jeopardize the lives of their loved ones. It is believed that out of 50 hostages, around 20 remain alive in Gaza. Meanwhile, public opinion polls suggest that approximately 75% of Israelis favor a ceasefire deal aimed at securing the hostages' release rather than escalating military action.
International and Domestic Reactions
Many of Israel’s close allies have voiced opposition to a full reoccupation, urging for an end to the war and measures to address the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Domestically, hundreds of retired Israeli security officials, including former intelligence chiefs, have signed a joint letter addressed to then-US President Donald Trump, urging him to pressure Netanyahu to halt the conflict.
One notable signatory, Ami Ayalon, former head of Israel’s domestic intelligence agency, told the BBC that further military action would be ineffective. He argued, "From the military point of view, [Hamas] is totally destroyed. On the other hand, as an ideology it is gaining more power among the Palestinian people, within the Arab street around us, and also in the world of Islam." Ayalon emphasized that defeating Hamas’s ideology requires presenting a better future rather than relying solely on military means.
Ceasefire Talks Collapse and Hostage Footage Released
These developments follow the breakdown of indirect ceasefire and hostage negotiations with Hamas. Palestinian armed groups recently released three videos showing two Israeli hostages, Rom Blaslavski and Evyatar David, appearing weak and emaciated. Both were kidnapped during the Nova festival on October 7, 2023. In one distressing clip, David is seen digging what he claims is his own grave in an underground tunnel, a scene that has deeply shocked and horrified the Israeli public.
Speculation Over Political Motives
Some analysts suggest that the recent public announcements about the full reoccupation plan may be intended as a pressure tactic amid the stalled negotiations and mounting public anxiety over the hostages’ fate.
