KYIV – Israel has launched a renewed Gaza offensive aimed at seizing Hamas’ last two major strongholds, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declaring the operation is designed to “end the war quickly” and bring lasting security. The move, approved Friday by Israel’s Security Cabinet, targets Gaza City, the territory’s largest urban center, which has remained under significant Hamas control despite nearly two years of fighting.
Addressing international journalists in Jerusalem on Sunday, Netanyahu stated that Israel has “no choice but to complete the job and defeat Hamas,” pointing to the group’s refusal to disarm unless an independent Palestinian state is established. Netanyahu described the campaign as being conducted on a “fairly short timetable,” emphasizing the goal to swiftly establish safe zones for the evacuation of Gaza City’s civilian population.
The new strategy, coordinated with Washington, also incorporates a “humanitarian surge” to boost aid delivery even as military preparations advance. Netanyahu said the operation’s timeline was deliberately kept imprecise, but reiterated, “we want to bring the war to an end. This is how we bring the war to an end”.
The expanded incursion has faced domestic protests and increased international criticism, particularly from several European Union countries, who warn of the humanitarian risks and the strategy’s effectiveness. Critics also highlight concerns for hostages still held by Hamas and the civilian population trapped in conflict zones.
Hamas responded by refusing any disarmament short of statehood, while some Israeli opposition figures and far-right leaders, including the finance minister, called the government’s plan inadequate or deeply risky. The situation remains tense as Israel prepares for the decisive stages of its Gaza operation amid growing calls for a ceasefire and further United Nations scrutiny.