Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has signaled a dual approach to the Gaza conflict: greenlighting a military push to seize Gaza City while simultaneously opening negotiations for a ceasefire and hostage release. The announcement came during a visit to an Israel Defense Forces (IDF) base near the Palestinian enclave.
Netanyahu said he came to approve the IDF's plans to defeat Hamas and secure Gaza City, home to over 600,000 residents. He emphasized Israel's aim to dismantle the group's stronghold in the enclave.
At the same time, he ordered immediate negotiations for freeing hostages and ending the war on terms acceptable to Israel. The pause in military escalation hinges on five key conditions: Hamas's disarmament, full release of hostages, Gaza's demilitarization, Israeli security oversight of the enclave, and the installation of a neutral administration.
So far, no Israeli delegation has been dispatched to Doha or Cairo, according to reports, and no official response has been given to a temporary truce proposal brokered by Egypt and Qatar. Meanwhile, the IDF has already mobilized 60,000 reservists, with another 20,000 set to be called up in the coming days.
As tensions mount, experts warn this dual strategy carries risks. A full-scale assault could accelerate displacement and humanitarian challenges across Gaza, while stalled talks threaten to prolong the hostage crisis. Yet supporters argue that a combined tactic of pressure and diplomacy might force a breakthrough.
For young global citizens tracking this conflict, the story raises questions about the balance between military action and negotiation, the human cost on both sides, and the role of regional mediators in forging a path to lasting peace.
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Israel to approve Gaza City seizure plan despite ceasefire talks
cgtn.com
