Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has pledged to launch a renewed full-scale offensive in Gaza aimed at the “total destruction of Hamas,” despite parallel negotiations to secure the release of hostages still held by the militant group.
Speaking Tuesday to injured Israeli reservists, Netanyahu declared that Israel would proceed “in the coming days” with renewed military action. “We will go in with full force to complete the operation – destroy Hamas and bring all our hostages home,” the prime minister said.
While suggesting that a temporary ceasefire could be considered for the sake of a hostage deal, Netanyahu made clear that “there will be no situation where we stop the war.”
Netanyahu also said that a “governing body” has been formed to manage the potential evacuation of Gaza’s population, claiming that over half of Gaza’s residents would willingly leave if given the opportunity. However, no country has yet volunteered to receive displaced Palestinians.
On Tuesday, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) struck the European Hospital in Khan Yunis, southern Gaza. The military claimed Hamas had established an underground command center beneath the facility. The operation reportedly targeted Hamas commander Muhammad Sinwar, whose status remains unconfirmed.
A second strike was reported on Wednesday, with Palestinian media alleging it was intended to deter first responders. Gaza’s civil defense agency stated that IDF forces “deliberately targeted anyone who tried to reach the wounded.”
According to Palestinian officials, at least 28 civilians were killed in the strikes.
The conflict, ignited by Hamas’ October 7, 2023, incursion into southern Israel – which resulted in more than 1,100 deaths and over 200 kidnappings – has since escalated into a devastating war. Israel's military campaign has left more than 60,000 Palestinians dead, with tens of thousands more injured or missing, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry.
Despite mounting international pressure for de-escalation and ceasefire, Netanyahu's comments affirm that Israel intends to pursue its military objectives in Gaza to their conclusion.