Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has given the green light to the IDF's plan to take control of Gaza City, declaring a push to “defeat Hamas” even as hostage release talks get underway. 😬🔥
During a visit to a military base near the enclave, Netanyahu said he’s launching “immediate negotiations” to free hostages and end the war on terms Israel finds acceptable. 🤝📜
Details on where or how the talks will kick off are still under wraps—no delegation is headed to Doha or Cairo just yet, according to Ynet. At the same time, Israel is mobilizing thousands of reservists for a possible major operation.
This announcement follows a massive call-up: 60,000 reservists have been activated, with another 20,000 on standby. The military’s gearing up for a large-scale move. 💪
Earlier this week, Hamas signaled openness to a temporary truce and hostage swap brokered by Egypt and Qatar. Israel’s official response remains pending.
Netanyahu outlined five conditions for halting the offensive: Hamas disarmament, hostage release, Gaza’s demilitarization, full Israeli security oversight, and a non-Israeli body to run daily life—excluding Hamas or the Palestinian Authority. ⚖️
As tensions mount, all eyes are on whether diplomacy or force will shape the next chapter in this long-running conflict.
Reference(s):
Israel to approve Gaza City seizure plan despite ceasefire talks
cgtn.com
