Background on Benjamin Netanyahu and His Relevance
Benjamin Netanyahu, the current Prime Minister of Israel since 2009 (with previous terms from 1996 to 1999), is a prominent figure in Israeli politics. Known for his right-wing stance, Netanyahu has been a strong advocate for Israeli security and has often taken hardline positions on issues related to the Palestinian territories. His government, considered one of the most right-leaning in Israel’s history, includes parties that aim to annex both Gaza and the West Bank and encourage Palestinians to leave their homeland.
Netanyahu’s Plan for Gaza and Military Action
During a security meeting, Netanyahu stated that Israel must “completely defeat” Hamás in Gaza to secure the release of hostages. He emphasized the need to liberate all captives and ensure Gaza no longer poses a threat to Israel. According to anonymous Israeli officials cited by the media, Netanyahu wants the Israeli military to take full control of the Gaza Strip. This would involve military operations in areas previously avoided due to concerns about hostage safety, including refugee camps in central Gaza.
Potential Opposition Within the Israeli Military
There are speculations about possible disagreement from the Chief of Staff, Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir. However, several cabinet members confirmed that Netanyahu decided to expand combat operations to areas where hostages might be held.
United Nations Warns of Catastrophic Consequences
The United Nations expressed deep concern over reports suggesting Israel might broaden its military operations across the entire Gaza Strip. Miroslav Jenca, Under-Secretary-General of the UN, warned that such a move would have catastrophic consequences and further endanger any remaining hostages. He emphasized that, according to international law, Gaza should remain an integral part of a future Palestinian state.
International Reactions and Food Blockade Context
The UN Security Council held a meeting dedicated to the issue of Israeli hostages in Gaza, at Israel’s request, placing this topic at the forefront of the international agenda. US President Donald Trump expressed outrage over videos released by Hamás showing a weakened Israeli hostage allegedly digging his own grave.
Israel imposed a total blockade on Gaza starting March 2, easing it partially in May by allowing limited food supplies deemed insufficient by the UN. Netanyahu’s plan for total control of Gaza would reverse Israel’s 2005 decision to withdraw settlers and the military from Gaza while maintaining control over its borders.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who is Benjamin Netanyahu? He is the current Prime Minister of Israel, known for his right-wing political stance and strong advocacy for Israeli security.
- What is Netanyahu’s plan for Gaza? Netanyahu aims for the Israeli military to take full control of the Gaza Strip, including areas previously avoided due to hostage safety concerns.
- What concerns does the UN have? The UN warns that broadening Israel’s military operations across Gaza would have catastrophic consequences and endanger remaining hostages, emphasizing Gaza’s role as part of a future Palestinian state.
- What is the context of the food blockade on Gaza? Israel imposed a total blockade on Gaza in March 2023, easing it in May to allow limited food supplies deemed insufficient by the UN. This context is crucial in understanding Netanyahu’s plan for total control of Gaza.
