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The Israeli cabinet meets today to decide on the controversial plan total employment of the Strip GazaThe proposal, pushed by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, is generating strong divisions within the security cabinet, the army, and public opinion. Against this backdrop is the fragile humanitarian situation in the Strip and the still-uncertain fate of Israeli hostages held by Hamas.
Netanyahu moves toward full occupation of Gaza: US concerns and focus on hostages
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed concern about the limited attention given to the fate of the twenty Israeli hostages detained by Hamas in the Gaza Strip Gaza, despite the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the Palestinian enclave. Rubio emphasized that, while acknowledging the urgency of the humanitarian situation, the risk to the lives of these innocent people is often overlooked.
He also revealed that he maintained frequent, almost daily, contact with Israeli government officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and several members of his team, discussing strategic options for Israel's security. According to Rubio, the presence of Hamas represents a permanent obstacle to peace in the region, conditioning any future prospect of stability.
Netanyahu moves toward a full-scale occupation of Gaza: protests in Tel Aviv and fears among hostages' families
In Tel Aviv, hundreds of protesters, including the families of the hostages still in the hands of Hamas, they organized a march against the Israeli project to extend military control over the Gaza Strip. During the protest, there were incidents clashes with the police, who forcefully arrested Michel Illouz, father of one of the hostages.
The initiative was also attended by former prisoners, who urged the continuation of negotiations for the complete release of the abductees, warning against dangers associated with the total occupation of the areaRelatives have expressed concern that a military escalation could cost the lives of their loved ones, who have been weakened by prolonged detention and critical conditions documented in videos recently released by Hamas.
Netanyahu Moves to Total Occupation of Gaza: Decision Today, Israel Divided
Strong divisions persist within the Israeli government over the operation to completely occupy Gaza, which is expected to be put to a vote during the cabinet meeting security meeting convened by Netanyahu today, from 18pm to 23pm. However, discussions may continue beyond the scheduled time.
Despite political pressure, Army Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir expressed strong reservations, warning that a large-scale invasion would lead to heavy losses among Israeli troops and a significant risk to the lives of the hostages. On the political front, opposition leader Yair Lapid has the strategy was harshly criticized, underlining the lack of popular support for such an escalation and warning of the operational, moral, and economic consequences of a prolonged war. At the same time, tensions are rising politically between hardliners and advocates of a more cautious and negotiated solution, while the international community is monitoring developments in an increasingly volatile region with apprehension.