Netanyahu: Israel aims to take full control of Gaza by the conclusion of the off

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced that the only way to ensure the security of Israel is to control all of the Gaza Strip by the end of its current offensive in the Palestinian territory. This comes as the conflict continues to escalate, with no clear end in sight. Meanwhile, the international community is urging for a humanitarian ceasefire to allow much-needed aid to reach the besieged enclave.

In his speech, Netanyahu also addressed the issue of hostages held in Gaza, saying that the 20 individuals were "certainly" alive and that Israel was ready to enact a temporary ceasefire to facilitate their release. However, no further details were provided on the conditions or timeline for such an arrangement.

Amidst the ongoing crisis, the aid group Doctors Without Borders (MSF) criticized the amount of aid Israel has allowed into Gaza, calling it insufficient and a "smokescreen to pretend the siege is over." The organization emphasized the urgent need for medical supplies and personnel to address the humanitarian situation in the area.

The US President Donald Trump's recent Middle East tour, which excluded a stop in Israel, had fueled speculations of a rift between him and Netanyahu. However, the Israeli Prime Minister has denied any such tension, claiming to have spoken to Trump and receiving his assurance of "complete commitment" to Israel and its security.

The situation in Gaza remains precarious, with both sides showing no immediate signs of backing down from their positions, and the human cost of the conflict continuing to rise. The international community, including the US, is under growing pressure to help broker a lasting peace deal and provide substantial support for the reconstruction and relief efforts in the region.
Dwnews