Netanyahu Set To Unveil New War Plan, May Order 'Total Conquest Of Gaza'
According to Israeli media, the updated war plan aims to dismantle Hamas and secure the release of dozens of Israeli hostages
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is expected to announce a new military strategy for Gaza, with reports suggesting he may order the complete reoccupation of the Palestinian territory.
According to Israeli media, the updated war plan aims to dismantle Hamas and secure the release of dozens of Israeli hostages still held in Gaza since the October 7 attacks.
Netanyahu was scheduled to meet top security officials in Jerusalem on Tuesday, including the Chief of Staff, the Defence Minister, and other senior military leaders. While the timing of the meeting has not been officially confirmed, the discussions are believed to focus on expanding military operations and issuing new directives.
Public broadcaster Kan reported that Netanyahu 'wants the Israeli army to conquer the entire Gaza Strip," while the private daily Maariv declared, 'The die is cast. We're en route for the total conquest of Gaza."
Several unnamed officials told media that the Netanyahu plans to extend operations into areas where hostages may be held.
Netanyahu also said he would bring the plan to the cabinet later this week for approval. The developments come as Israeli diplomats convene a United Nations Security Council meeting in New York to draw attention to the hostages' plight.
The reported reoccupation plans have already triggered sharp reactions from the Palestinian Authority and Hamas.
Senior Hamas official Husam Badran told AFP that the group is still committed to talks aimed at ending the war and easing the humanitarian crisis. 'The ball is in the hands of Israel and the Americans," he said.
Since the war began in October 2023, over 60,000 Palestinians have been killed, according to Gaza's Hamas-run health ministry. Large areas of Gaza have been flattened by Israeli operations, and aid agencies warn of worsening famine conditions for the 2.4 million people living there.
Meanwhile, pressure is mounting on Netanyahu from multiple sides. Hostage families in Israel continue to demand a ceasefire to bring their loved ones home. Internationally, calls for a truce are growing louder, as are efforts in several European countries to recognise Palestinian statehood, moves strongly opposed by Israel and the United States.
Inside his own coalition, Netanyahu is also facing pressure from far-right allies who support the full reoccupation of Gaza and increased control over the occupied West Bank.
(With inputs from AFP)
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First Published:
August 05, 2025, 16:46 IST
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