Netanyahu approves Gaza takeover plan, aims to reopen Hamas negotiations

“We are at a decisive stage. I arrived today at the Gaza Division to approve the plans presented by the IDF to me and the defense minister for the takeover of Gaza City and the defeat of Hamas,” the prime minister said during his visit to the IDF division conducting military operations in the Gaza Strip and along its border.

Netanyahu stated that he has instructed to immediately begin negotiations for the release of all hostages and to end the war in Gaza on Israel’s terms. He added that Israel currently has no intention of sending a delegation to Doha or Qatar for negotiations with the Palestinians.

The head of the Israeli government also expressed deep gratitude for the mobilization of reservists and regular troops.

“These two objectives – defeating Hamas and securing the release of all our hostages – go hand in hand,” he said.

A source from The Jerusalem Post also reported that Netanyahu was impressed by the well-prepared plans presented to him at the Gaza Division.

Plan to capture Gaza

On Thursday, June 21, IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir and senior defense officials presented plans to capture Gaza City to Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

The discussion also included Minister of Strategic Affairs Ron Dermer, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, and Minister of National Security Itamar Ben-Gvir.

Zamir addressed the Kfir Infantry Brigade and armored units in Khan Yunis ahead of a security cabinet meeting, where the upcoming operation in Gaza City was discussed.

The Chief of Staff noted that the Israeli army continues to prepare for the Gaza operation. According to him, troops are already operating on the city’s outskirts, and additional forces will join them later.

“Our missions remain the release of the hostages and the defeat of Hamas. We will not rest, and we will not stop until we achieve them. Accomplishing these goals is essential for our future and our values as a society,” Zamir stated.

Occupation of the Gaza Strip

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has repeatedly stated his intention to take full control of the Gaza Strip. He has described his plans not as an occupation but as a necessary measure to liberate the enclave from Hamas.

In early August, Israel’s Security Cabinet approved Netanyahu’s plan for the complete capture of Gaza City - the last area controlled by the Palestinians. On August 20, the military launched this offensive operation.

One of the reasons for this decision was the unsuccessful negotiations between Israel and the Hamas group regarding a ceasefire and the exchange of hostages.

Israel is also coordinating with several countries in the region to receive Palestinian civilians displaced by the war in the enclave.

At the same time, many ordinary Israelis are calling for an immediate end to the war and regularly participate in protests.