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Prime ministers

Netanyahu Defies Calls to End Gaza War, Aims for Swift Victory

Strategic Insights

— 2 min read

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu remains resolute in his plan to capture Gaza City and target the remaining Hamas strongholds, despite mounting criticism and international calls to end the conflict. The war, sparked by Hamas's attack in 2023, has now entered its 22nd month, with thousands of people protesting in Tel Aviv and UN officials warning of a potential humanitarian crisis. Netanyahu's security cabinet has announced plans to expand the conflict, with the aim of dismantling two remaining Hamas strongholds in Gaza City and establishing secure corridors for civilians to leave.

Key Takeaways:

  • Netanyahu's plan to capture Gaza City and target Hamas strongholds is seen as the "best way to end the war" and the "best way to end it speedily", according to the Prime Minister.
  • The operation will aim to dismantle two remaining Hamas strongholds in Gaza City and the central camps, while establishing secure corridors and safe zones for civilians to leave the area.
  • Israel has maintained a military control over about 70-75% of Gaza, but still has two remaining strongholds to defeat Hamas.
  • A Hamas spokesperson has described Netanyahu's comments as "a series of lies".
  • The Israeli strike at the weekend resulted in the deaths of five Al Jazeera journalists, including a prominent reporter.
  • Over 200 media workers have been killed in the conflict, according to media watchdogs.
  • Thousands of people protested in Tel Aviv to voice their opposition to the security cabinet's decision to expand the conflict.
  • Netanyahu has faced regular protests throughout the war, with many rallies calling for a ceasefire and hostage-release deal.
  • Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has slammed the new plan as "half-hearted" and urged the government to go harder on Hamas.
  • National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir has expressed a desire to "achieve victory" and "transfer and colonization" of Gaza.
  • The cabinet's decision has sparked a wave of criticism across the globe, with UN officials warning of a potential humanitarian crisis.
  • Netanyahu has maintained that the goal is not to occupy Gaza but to establish a civilian administration in the Strip not affiliated with Hamas or the Palestinian Authority.

Statistics:

  • 22 months: The duration of the war sparked by Hamas's attack in 2023.
  • 70-75%: The percentage of Gaza under Israeli military control.
  • 2 strongholds: The remaining Hamas strongholds that need to be defeated.
  • 200+ media workers: The number of journalists killed in the conflict.
  • 49 hostages: The number of captives still being held by Hamas.
  • 27 dead hostages: The number of hostages confirmed dead by the military.
  • 61 430 Palestinians: The estimated number of Palestinians killed in the conflict, according to Gaza's health ministry.
  • 251 hostages: The total number of hostages captured during Hamas's 2023 attack.

Sources:

  • AFP
  • Al Jazeera
  • Kan radio
  • Qatar-based broadcaster
  • UN Assistant Secretary-General Miroslav Jenca
  • Israeli Prime Minister's office

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