Netanyahu Approves Plan to Take Over Hamas Base in Gaza

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Thursday that he has given the go-ahead for a plan to seize the last Hamas stronghold in Gaza City.

During a visit to troops stationed in Gaza, Netanyahu stated, translated from Hebrew, that he has authorized the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to proceed with their plan. He emphasized that alongside military operations, he has also instructed the initiation of negotiations to free all hostages and bring an end to the conflict.

“I’m here today to affirm the IDF’s strategy to take control of Gaza City and tackle Hamas,” he said. “It’s a crucial moment. I want to express my appreciation for the mobilization of reservists and regular troops involved in this important mission.”

Netanyahu further noted, “I have directed that the terms accepted by Israel be put into action to start negotiations on the immediate release of hostages as the war draws to a close. The defeat of Hamas and the release of our hostages are interconnected.”

Speculation about a potential agreement has circulated in recent days, especially after Hamas seemed open to terms it previously declined in May.

Notably, Netanyahu has suggested that currently only one viable deal exists for the Israeli public. It seems military pressures are influencing Hamas to consider negotiations—a shift following a period where several Western nations stepped back from talks after recognizing Palestinian statehood.