Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has expressed a firm commitment to continue a military offensive in densely populated areas of Gaza amid rising domestic and international criticism. He stated that Israel must “finish the job” and defeat Hamas fully. Netanyahu spoke to international media just before a United Nations Security Council meeting focused on the ongoing situation in Gaza.
In a notable shift, Netanyahu mentioned that he has instructed the military to allow more foreign journalists into Gaza, which has previously been severely restricted. He emphasised that Israel’s objective is not to occupy Gaza but to “free” it and attributed the region’s turmoil to Hamas, accusing the group of causing substantial suffering among civilians and persistence in retaining armed militants.
On the humanitarian front, at least 26 Palestinians have died in their quest for aid, highlighting the dire situation as families of Israeli hostages have begun to protest against the military’s plans for further escalation in Gaza City. Hospital officials reported that deaths have resulted from gunfire near aid distribution routes, while Israeli officials deny any involvement in these incidents.
Netanyahu acknowledged hunger issues within Gaza but contended there is no widespread starvation, promising efforts to increase aid distribution, although he provided no logistical details. Meanwhile, the humanitarian crisis continues to escalate, with reports indicating 100 child fatalities due to hunger since the start of the conflict.
As the Israeli military operations intensify, displaced populations are nearing famine conditions, prompting protests in Israel. Families of hostages are especially concerned, fearing that expanded military actions may jeopardise the safety of their loved ones still held in captivity. Netanyahu’s government faces pressure from both domestic protests and international calls for a reassessment of military strategies, as tensions remain fraught in both Gaza and the West Bank, where significant displacement and violence have also occurred.
Overall, the situation remains volatile, with increasing casualties and a rising humanitarian crisis, drawing alarm from various quarters as calls for a resolution grow louder amidst continued Israeli military efforts.