Sources report that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has, according to multiple accounts, indicated a potential intention to fully occupy the Gaza Strip. Reports in publications like “The Times of Israel” citing senior officials, state Netanyahu has reportedly used the term “occupation of the Strip” in private discussions.
These reported intentions are reportedly met with reservations within the Israeli military leadership. Concerns have been voiced regarding the logistical and temporal demands of dismantling Hamas infrastructure across the entire Strip, which some estimate could take years. Furthermore, military officials express worry that a full-scale occupation could endanger the safety of hostages still believed to be held within Gaza, particularly if troops advance towards locations where they are being detained.
Prime Minister Netanyahu is reportedly planning to convene his cabinet soon to issue directives regarding the continuation of military operations. Disagreements regarding the possibility of occupying Gaza are said to be present within the security cabinet. While some cabinet members are reportedly advocating for an expansion of operations, others are prioritizing efforts to secure a ceasefire and negotiate the release of hostages. The situation remains fluid and the discussions within the Israeli government are expected to shape the direction of the ongoing conflict.