Daijiworld Media Network- Jerusalem
Jerusalem, Aug 6: In a major development that could further intensify the ongoing conflict, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is reportedly considering a total occupation of the Gaza Strip, according to multiple Israeli media reports. The move, if confirmed, comes amid growing international calls to end the war and allow humanitarian access to the besieged Palestinian territory.
Speaking during a visit to an army training centre on Tuesday, Netanyahu reiterated his stand that the war must continue until Hamas is fully defeated. “It is necessary to complete the defeat of the enemy in Gaza, to free all our hostages and to ensure that Gaza will no longer pose a threat to Israel,” he said.
Following the statement, the Prime Minister’s Office confirmed that Netanyahu held a three-hour security discussion with army chief Eyal Zamir. However, it did not reveal details of any fresh military plans. Reports suggest that the Israeli security cabinet is expected to convene later this week to discuss and possibly approve updated instructions.
Public broadcaster Kan reported that Netanyahu is in favour of directing the Israeli army to conquer the entire Gaza Strip, while other media outlets suggested it could be a pressure tactic in ceasefire talks. According to Kan, the expansion would include areas where hostages are suspected to be held.
The proposal has triggered strong reactions. Hamas stated that Israeli threats will not alter their stance, reiterating demands for a complete withdrawal of forces from Gaza. "The ball is in the hands of Israel and the Americans," said senior Hamas official Hossam Badran, adding that the group seeks an end to the war and the ongoing famine.
Meanwhile, at the United Nations, Assistant Secretary-General Miroslav Jenca warned the Security Council that any further escalation in Gaza would have catastrophic consequences, especially for the hostages still held by Hamas.
On the humanitarian front, the situation in Gaza remains dire. The Gaza health ministry reported that at least 61,020 Palestinians have been killed since the war began. Israel’s offensive follows Hamas's October 7, 2023, attack, which left 1,219 people dead and 251 hostages taken, of whom 49 remain in captivity, including 27 confirmed dead.
Families of the hostages have been demanding a ceasefire, while aid agencies continue to sound the alarm over the worsening humanitarian crisis. The International Committee of the Red Cross reiterated its readiness to deliver food, medicine and messages from families to hostages — but stressed that such access requires an agreement between both sides.
At the same time, the Israeli defence body COGAT announced partial reopening of private sector trade with Gaza to reduce dependence on aid. Select merchants have been allowed to import basic food items and hygiene products.
On Tuesday, Gaza’s civil defence agency claimed Israeli forces opened fire near aid distribution points, killing at least 56 Palestinians. The Israeli military said it had fired only warning shots at a group of people moving towards soldiers but denied knowledge of any casualties.
As the war enters its 22nd month, Netanyahu faces increasing pressure — both domestically from hostage families demanding a ceasefire, and internationally from governments urging an immediate truce. However, the Prime Minister continues to hold ground, backed by his far-right coalition partners who are in favour of reoccupying Gaza fully, two decades after Israel withdrew its settlers and troops from the territory.