Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday declared that he had approved the military’s plan to seize control of Gaza City while also instructing negotiators to resume talks aimed at securing the release of hostages.
“I have come to approve the IDF’s plans to take control of Gaza City and defeat Hamas,” Netanyahu said in a video statement. “At the same time, I have instructed to immediately begin negotiations for the release of all our hostages and the end of the war under conditions acceptable to Israel.”
The move signals Israel’s intention to balance its military push with diplomatic efforts, though the timing raises concerns about escalating violence in the densely populated city.
Reservists Mobilized for Gaza Offensive
Netanyahu’s remarks came just a day after the Israeli defense ministry approved the mobilization of around 60,000 reservists to assist in the operation. The campaign, known as the second phase of “Gideon’s Chariots,” is intended to dismantle Hamas’ remaining stronghold in Gaza City.
Military chief Eyal Zamir confirmed that troops were already operating on the city’s outskirts, with additional forces expected to join in the coming days. “We are advancing with the efforts toward operations in Gaza City,” Zamir told soldiers.
Meanwhile, residents reported intensified airstrikes on the northern outskirts, with plumes of smoke visible from across the border. Several large explosions were heard late in the afternoon as the offensive gathered momentum.
Hostage Negotiations Resume
The decision to reopen talks comes after Hamas accepted a new ceasefire proposal earlier this week, which involved the staggered release of hostages. Israel, however, has insisted that any agreement must ensure the release of all captives at once.
“These two matters—defeating Hamas and releasing all our hostages—go hand in hand,” Netanyahu stressed, though he did not provide details about the negotiation framework. Mediators, including regional powers and international partners, have been awaiting Israel’s official response to Hamas’ acceptance.
International Condemnation
Hamas immediately condemned Israel’s Gaza takeover plan, calling it a “blatant disregard” for mediation efforts. “Today’s announcement by the terrorist occupation army… demonstrates a blatant disregard for the efforts made by the mediators,” the group said in a statement.
The Red Cross also voiced concern, labeling Israel’s actions “intolerable.” The UN humanitarian agency warned that an expanded offensive in Gaza City could have a “horrific humanitarian impact” on nearly one million residents and displaced persons already facing dire conditions.
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Health System on the Brink
Israel has reportedly instructed medical facilities in northern Gaza to begin evacuation procedures and transfer equipment to the south. However, Gaza’s health ministry rejected the call, saying it would not agree to “any step that would undermine what remains of the health system after the systematic destruction carried out by the occupation authorities.”
With resources dwindling and international agencies warning of catastrophic consequences, humanitarian concerns loom large as Israel presses ahead with its military agenda.
