JERUSALEM: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to convene his security cabinet this week to decide on the next course of action in Gaza, following the breakdown of indirect ceasefire negotiations with Hamas. A senior Israeli source indicated that a renewed military escalation could be considered.
U.S. Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff, during his visit last Saturday, said he was working with Israel on a plan to end the war in Gaza. However, Israeli officials are also weighing other options, including intensifying military operations and potentially annexing parts of Gaza.
The recent ceasefire talks in Doha aimed to finalize a U.S.-supported proposal for a 60-day truce, which included the delivery of humanitarian aid and the release of half the hostages held by Hamas in exchange for Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails.
Following a meeting between Netanyahu and Witkoff last Thursday, a senior Israeli official noted that both Washington and Jerusalem seemed to be aligning on the need for a broader agreement—one that would include the full release of hostages, disarmament of Hamas, and the demilitarization of Gaza—key Israeli demands for ending the conflict.
A source told Reuters that Witkoff’s visit was viewed as “very significant” in Israel. However, by Sunday evening, Israeli officials indicated that further talks with Hamas might be futile. One official stated that Netanyahu is now pushing for military action to secure the release of hostages and achieve a decisive victory.
Israel’s Channel 12 reported Monday that Netanyahu is leaning toward expanding the military campaign and potentially taking control of the entire Gaza Strip.
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