As global attention turns to Sunday's UN Security Council meeting, Israel's far-right coalition partners are pressuring Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to pursue a more aggressive military strategy in Gaza. The political rift comes 22 months into the conflict, with growing divisions between those prioritizing hostage negotiations and factions demanding Hamas's total defeat.
Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, a key figure in Netanyahu's governing coalition, criticized the security cabinet's Friday decision to capture Gaza City as insufficient. In a social media post, Smotrich argued the plan "repeats the same approach" without achieving decisive victory, reflecting rising tensions within Israel's leadership.
Meanwhile, thousands protested in Tel Aviv Saturday night against expanded military operations, with hostage families warning Netanyahu: "If you invade parts of Gaza and the hostages are murdered, we will pursue you in the town squares." At least 49 captives remain in Hamas custody following the group's 2023 attack that killed 1,219 people, according to AFP figures.
The proposed escalation has drawn international condemnation, with Gaza's Health Ministry reporting over 61,430 Palestinian deaths since hostilities began. UN agencies warn of worsening humanitarian conditions, while Sunday's Security Council session is expected to address both military developments and famine risks.
Netanyahu maintains his objective is "to free Gaza from Hamas," though coalition partners like National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir advocate more extreme measures, telling media: "I want all of Gaza, transfer and colonization." With the prime minister's parliamentary majority depending on far-right support, the political stakes mirror the military complexities of this prolonged conflict.
