Netanyahu Plans Full Gaza Occupation, Army Has Doubts: Report

According to Israeli media reports, the Prime Minister of Israel wants to occupy the entire Gaza Strip. However, not everyone in the army agrees with this plan. The destruction of all Hamas tunnels and bunkers could take years - this is how the Times of Israel describes the concerns of the army leadership. In addition, the hostages could be endangered if Israeli troops approach their places of detention.

According to Israeli estimates, 50 hostages currently remain in the hands of Hamas terrorists, of whom at least 20 are believed to be still alive.

Despite the concerns of the military, Netanyahu will seek the support of the cabinet to implement the plan for the full occupation of Gaza, writes the Times of Israel. According to reports, Chief of General Staff Eyal Zamir has previously had harsh debates in National Security Council meetings with ministers who demanded the full occupation of the Gaza Strip.

"The game has begun - we intend to completely occupy the Gaza Strip," ynet quotes an anonymous official from Netanyahu's circle. However, the article suggests that these statements could also be part of a negotiation tactic to bring Hamas terrorists back to the negotiating table.

Netanyahu himself had earlier only stated that he would convene the National Security Council this week to make a decision on further actions in Gaza. "I know exactly what Hamas wants. It does not want an agreement," the head of government added in a video message.