Israel-Hamas War: Netanyahu Seeks New Phase of Direct Control Over Gaza

The recent escalation of the conflict between Israel and Hamas has reignited tensions and uncertainties in the Gaza Strip. Against this backdrop of war , Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has outlined a strategic plan aimed not only at defeating Hamas but also at consolidating a permanent Israeli presence in Gaza. This new strategy represents a significant turning point, with potential long-term repercussions on regional stability and international political balance.

The conflict between Israel and Hamas, now in its 668th day, is entering a new decisive phase. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office has announced that the decision to completely occupy the Gaza Strip has been made. According to sources close to the government, Netanyahu is convinced that Hamas will not release further hostages unless they surrender completely, and that Israel cannot afford to give in to this threat.

As part of this plan, the Israeli army is expected to extend its control to the areas where the hostages are believed to be held, thus expanding the territory already partially under its control. The Israel Defense Forces ( IDF ) announced the lifting of the state of emergency , in effect since October 7, which provided for the mandatory extension of reserve service for regular conscripts for an additional four months.

According to Ynet , the army also announced a series of personnel reductions, which will lead to a reduction in regular contingents in the coming weeks. The announcement came just minutes after statements from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's entourage.

Netanyahu prepares plan for total occupation of Gaza: internal divisions and international reactions

Deep divisions are emerging within the Israeli government regarding the complete occupation of the Gaza Strip. On one side, the far-right wing strongly supports military expansion; its supporters include several ministers and senior military officials, while on the other, there are those who propose moving toward a ceasefire, fearing further losses and the risk to the hostages.

Israel Defense Forces Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir reportedly resisted the plan, receiving a clear response from Netanyahu calling on him to resign if he disagreed.

Meanwhile, the international community is closely monitoring developments: a telephone conversation between Netanyahu and Vladimir Putin was recorded, with the Russian president reaffirming Moscow's support for a peaceful resolution to the conflict. Furthermore, there is talk of US President Donald Trump allegedly giving the green light to Israel's military operation against Hamas, while new political measures from Washington appear to be aimed at strengthening its support for Israel, including on the economic and diplomatic levels.