Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced that the country’s military operations in Gaza will intensify “with full force” in the coming days, reinforcing his commitment to defeating Hamas and refusing any long-term ceasefire agreements.
Netanyahu stated that the goal remains the complete destruction of Hamas, underscoring that the Israel-Hamas war will continue regardless of any temporary deals for hostage release. “The mission is not over. We will press forward with strength to finish what we started,” he declared during a visit to wounded IDF soldiers.
Escalation Expected Despite Hostage Deal Momentum
The announcement follows the recent release of Edan Alexander, the last known U.S. hostage held by Hamas, in what was described as a “gesture of goodwill” towards U.S. President Donald Trump. However, Netanyahu stressed that the war effort will not pause—even if Hamas agrees to release more hostages. “We’ll take them—but the war won’t stop,” he emphasized.
Ceasefire Talks and International Mediation
The statement complicates ongoing ceasefire negotiations, which had gained traction following Alexander’s release. Hamas has insisted on conditions including the release of Palestinian prisoners, a permanent ceasefire, and the full withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.
As of now, Israel believes that 58 hostages remain in Gaza, with at least 23 confirmed alive. Concerns persist about the welfare of three individuals. The October 7, 2023, Hamas attack initially took 251 hostages, sparking the current conflict.
Netanyahu Faces Growing Backlash
The prime minister is facing mounting criticism from families of hostages and opposition leaders who accuse him of endangering lives by prolonging the conflict. During a meeting in Tel Aviv with American envoys, including Steve Witkoff and Adam Boehler, family members expressed their frustration. Witkoff reiterated the U.S. preference for a diplomatic resolution, noting that most previous hostage releases were achieved through negotiation.
Israeli Strikes Intensify in Southern Gaza
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have increased air and ground attacks across the Gaza Strip. On Tuesday, two hospitals in Khan Younis—Nasser and the European Hospital—were targeted. Israel claims Hamas was operating a command center beneath the facilities. The strikes reportedly killed eight people, including a journalist, and injured dozens.
Meanwhile, the Gaza Health Ministry, operated by Hamas, reported that 57 children have died from malnutrition since Israel imposed a blockade on March 2, further worsening the humanitarian crisis.
Resettlement Plans and Regional Tensions
Netanyahu reiterated support for a controversial plan that involves the relocation of Palestinians from Gaza—a proposal originally floated by the Trump administration. “We have the system ready, but need willing countries. Over half will choose to leave if given the opportunity,” Netanyahu said. The plan has been widely condemned by Arab nations and humanitarian organizations.
Human Cost of the Conflict
Since the war erupted, over 52,000 Palestinians—primarily women and children—have been killed, according to Gaza’s Hamas-run health authorities. The Israeli military has reported the deaths of 850 soldiers.
The conflict began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas launched a large-scale attack on southern Israel, killing approximately 1,200 people, most of whom were civilians.