Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared on Thursday that Israel plans to assume military authority over the entirety of Gaza, despite facing mounting criticism both domestically and internationally for the prolonged conflict in the Palestinian territory.
In an interview with Fox News, Netanyahu affirmed Israel’s intention to take control of the coastal region, emphasizing the desire for a security perimeter without the intention of governing the area directly. He expressed the aim to transfer governance of Gaza to Arab forces in the future.
Netanyahu’s statements were made ahead of a scheduled meeting with senior ministers to discuss expanding military control in Gaza, with recent tensions reported between the government and military leadership regarding the scope of the campaign.
While public opinion polls indicate a preference among Israelis for a resolution that secures the release of hostages held by Hamas, Netanyahu’s administration remains committed to achieving a definitive victory over the militant group, which initiated the conflict with an attack on Israel in October 2023.
Calls to halt the military campaign and pursue a ceasefire have been voiced by various groups, including families of hostages held in Gaza, who urge for a peaceful resolution to end the prolonged conflict.
The United Nations has expressed concerns over potential escalation of military actions in Gaza, emphasizing the need for humanitarian aid and negotiations to address the crisis affecting the enclave’s population, which has faced displacement and dire living conditions.
As the situation in Gaza remains critical, with reports of starvation-related deaths and ongoing hostilities, international pressure mounts on Netanyahu to seek a ceasefire agreement, balancing external expectations with internal demands for decisive action against Hamas.