After almost two years of conflict in Gaza, Israel’s political landscape is more divided than ever. Ahead of a UN Security Council meeting on Sunday, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s latest plan to expand operations in Gaza City has sparked intense debate.
Pressure from the Far Right
Far-right voices, led by Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, have openly criticized Netanyahu’s strategy as too cautious. Smotrich called the plan “half-hearted,” accusing the cabinet of choosing limited pressure over a “decisive resolution.” Ben Gvir told Kan radio, “I want all of Gaza—transfer and colonization. This plan will not endanger the troops.”
Street Protests and Hostage Families
In Tel Aviv, thousands demonstrated for a truce and the safe return of hostages. Shahar Mor Zahiro, whose relative was killed in captivity, warned the prime minister:
“If the hostages are murdered, we will pursue you in town squares, in campaigns and at every time and place.”
Global Reaction and Humanitarian Toll
Israel’s plan to expand operations has drawn widespread criticism. With famine warnings looming, foreign powers are urging a negotiated truce to free the 49 remaining hostages—27 of whom the military says are dead. According to Gaza’s Health Ministry, at least 61,430 Palestinians have died since the war began, while an AFP tally reports 1,219 Israelis killed in Hamas’s 2023 attack.
On Sunday, the UN Security Council will convene to review the latest developments and weigh calls for de-escalation.
What’s Next?
Netanyahu is set to hold his first press conference since the security cabinet decision, pledging, “We are not going to occupy Gaza—we are going to free Gaza from Hamas.”
Reference(s):
Israel far right presses Netanyahu for decisive win against Hamas
cgtn.com
