Jerusalem — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is reportedly pushing for the full occupation of Gaza, despite opposition from the public, senior military officers, and the international community.
Israeli media quoted an aide as saying: “The die is cast – we are going for a full occupation of the Gaza Strip,” even if it risks the lives of remaining Israeli captives held there since Hamas’s October 7, 2023 attack.
After nearly two years of war — killing more than 60,000 Palestinians and pushing Gaza to the brink of famine — critics say Netanyahu’s move is aimed at prolonging the conflict to maintain his political coalition and delay his ongoing corruption trial.
Military and Public Resistance
Analysts warn the Israeli army is overstretched, with troop shortages of over 100,000, widespread PTSD, and growing refusals to serve. Several senior officers, including Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir, reportedly oppose further escalation.
More than 600 former Israeli security officials signed an open letter urging US President Donald Trump to push for an end to the war, arguing Hamas no longer poses a strategic threat.
“From the military point of view, Hamas is destroyed. But as an ideology, it’s growing stronger,” said Ami Ayalon, ex-head of Shin Bet.
Political Gamble
Public frustration is rising over Netanyahu’s refusal to agree to a ceasefire that could secure the captives’ release. A May poll found most Israelis believe he prioritises staying in power over winning the war.
“This is madness,” said Yossi Mekelberg of Chatham House. “Any decent leader would have resigned long ago. Everything with Netanyahu is about political survival.Netanyahu wants to ‘occupy Gaza’, what do Israeli people, military think?
