Israel is preparing to expand its military operations in Gaza, potentially for the first time targeting areas where hostages are believed to be held, in what local media have described as a “full takeover.”
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is expected to convene his security cabinet this week to make a final decision, following the breakdown of ceasefire talks with Hamas.
During the war, Israeli forces have previously avoided hostage zones to minimise the risk of casualties. However, recent distressing Hamas-released videos showing skeletal hostages have intensified domestic pressure on Netanyahu, with calls for both military action and a ceasefire.
One senior Israeli source noted that greater force may now be considered, while Netanyahu’s office reportedly told military chief Eyal Zamir – who opposes a full takeover – “If this does not suit you, then you should resign.”
New figures estimate around 50 hostages remain in captivity, with roughly 20 believed to still be alive.
Efforts to negotiate their release via a US-backed 60-day truce collapsed recently in Doha. The proposed deal would have exchanged some hostages for Palestinian prisoners, while allowing humanitarian aid into Gaza.
Meanwhile, over 600 retired Israeli security officials have written to US President Donald Trump urging him to pressure Netanyahu to end the war.
“It is our professional judgement that Hamas no longer poses a strategic threat to Israel,” they wrote. “End the war, return the hostages, stop the suffering.”
The Israeli military leadership remains cautious about escalating the war, warning it could endanger hostages and prolong the conflict. Army Radio reports growing frustration among military leaders over the lack of clear political strategy, while alternative military options are being considered.
Amid this, foreign diplomatic efforts continue. France and Saudi Arabia have issued a joint declaration, supported by Egypt and Qatar, calling for a two-state solution and urging Hamas to surrender control of Gaza to the Palestinian Authority.
Hamas has rejected foreign-imposed outcomes but signalled willingness to cede governance to a neutral body – provided that any post-war arrangement is decided by Palestinians themselves.
Source: Euro News
