ALWAGHT- Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his newly-appointed security team are reportedly planning a large-scale ground offensive in the Gaza Strip to seize and hold territory, aiming to weaken and defeat the Palestinian resistance group Hamas.
Israel is preparing for a major military escalation in Gaza, aiming to defeat Hamas before considering any political resolutions, according to a Wall Street Journal report. While Tel Aviv insists on Hamas' destruction, many experts and even Israeli officials acknowledge that eliminating the group is unlikely due to its deep-rooted presence and widespread support among Palestinians and regional allies. Former Israeli military spokesman Daniel Hagari has stated that Hamas is an idea that cannot simply be eradicated through military action.
The renewed offensive follows Israel's brief adherence to a ceasefire agreement, which it repeatedly violated before resuming large-scale attacks. Tel Aviv is trying to pressure Hamas into releasing Israeli captives while refusing to uphold its end of the ceasefire, which included releasing Palestinian prisoners and withdrawing from Gaza. Despite ongoing bombings and targeted assassinations of Hamas leaders, reports indicate that the group remains resilient, continuing to recruit fighters and strengthen its defenses.
Meanwhile, public opinion within Israel is divided. Many settlers and even Netanyahu’s right-wing supporters favor negotiations over further military aggression. Polls show that a majority of Israelis, including those in Netanyahu's Likud party, support a diplomatic resolution with Hamas. However, Netanyahu has reportedly sought to undermine ceasefire negotiations by dismissing officials who support talks. As the war continues, the death toll in Gaza has exceeded 50,000, mostly women and children, while Hamas has appointed new leadership, signaling its ongoing defiance.
