Netanyahu Approves Plan for Full Control of Gaza, Ceasefire Talks Collapse Amid Ongoing Conflict
Gaza(The Uttam Hindu): As the Gaza Strip continues to reel under famine and a severe humanitarian crisis, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has pushed forward with his plan to gain full control over Gaza, receiving approval from his cabinet. This decision has put the ongoing ceasefire negotiations with Hamas in jeopardy. According to Israeli media, Netanyahu used the term “complete occupation” during a closed-door meeting with his cabinet, signaling a firm stance against any peace deal with Hamas.
In April 2025, Netanyahu instructed the elite Golani Brigade to eliminate Hamas strongholds in areas like Rafah, Beit Hanoun, and Beit Lahia. The Israeli military claims that it now controls nearly 70% of Gaza, with special forces actively working to destroy tunnels and weapons depots. Netanyahu’s goal is not only the military dismantling of Hamas but also its administrative collapse. He reiterated that the demilitarization of Gaza and complete eradication of Hamas remain his top priorities.
Earlier, in May 2025, Hamas had accepted a U.S.-brokered proposal to release 10 hostages in exchange for a 70-day ceasefire. However, Netanyahu rejected the offer, stating that a ceasefire would only be considered if Hamas surrenders and gives up control of Gaza. In July, he reaffirmed that Hamas must be stripped of its military capabilities before any truce, a condition Hamas refused.
Despite mediation efforts by the U.S., Egypt, and Qatar, talks have repeatedly stalled over disagreements regarding disarmament and political control. Israel also accuses Hamas of stockpiling Iranian-supplied weapons and crude rocket technology in underground tunnels, often using civilians as human shields, further complicating the conflict.