In a high-stakes Cabinet meeting on Monday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he will order the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) this week to achieve three key objectives in Gaza “without exception.” As the humanitarian crisis deepens and deaths from starvation and malnutrition rise, Netanyahu stressed that timing is critical.
Three Clear Objectives
Netanyahu outlined the IDF’s mission: defeat the enemy forces, secure the release of all hostages, and ensure Gaza can never again threaten Israel. “These goals are non-negotiable,” he said, setting a firm deadline for action.
Ceasefire Talks Stall
Indirect ceasefire negotiations with Hamas have collapsed, fueling speculation that Israel may expand its offensive and seek full control of the Gaza Strip. Israel’s Channel 12 reports that Netanyahu’s office is leaning toward a broader ground push.
US Envoy Steps In
Over the weekend, US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff met families of Israeli hostages, signaling Washington’s active role in brokering an end to the conflict. A senior Israeli official said both sides are coalescing around a plan to transition from a temporary truce to a lasting agreement focused on disarming Hamas and freeing hostages.
A Regional Roadmap
Qatar and Egypt recently backed a French-Saudi declaration calling for a two-state solution roadmap. The plan urges Hamas to lay down its weapons and allow the Western-backed Palestinian Authority to govern Gaza. While Hamas has so far refused to disarm, mediators say the group is open to a non-partisan interim body—provided any post-war arrangements are made by Palestinians themselves.
As global pressure mounts, the next few days will be critical for both military strategy and diplomatic efforts. Young readers across the world are watching closely as Israel shapes its next moves against the backdrop of an intensifying humanitarian emergency.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
