Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has declared his government will pursue three military objectives in Gaza "without exception," even as international pressure mounts over civilian casualties and famine risks. The announcement came during Monday's Cabinet meeting, where Netanyahu outlined plans to defeat Hamas, secure hostage releases, and ensure Gaza "never again threatens Israel."
This hardline stance follows collapsed indirect negotiations with Hamas and growing speculation about an expanded Israeli offensive. Israel's Channel 12 reported Netanyahu favors seizing full control of Gaza, though U.S. Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff recently discussed conflict resolution plans with Israeli officials and hostage families.
While Washington and Jerusalem reportedly agree on transitioning from temporary truces to broader agreements addressing hostage releases and Gaza demilitarization, diplomatic efforts face hurdles. A French-Saudi roadmap endorsed by Qatar and Egypt calls for Hamas to disarm and transfer power to the Palestinian Authority – a proposal Hamas rejects as foreign interference.
Three Hamas officials told mediators the group might accept a non-partisan governing body but insists any post-war arrangement must be Palestinian-led. Meanwhile, malnutrition-related deaths continue rising in Gaza, with UN agencies warning of "catastrophic" humanitarian conditions.
