Benjamin Netanyahu (left) with Donald Trump (right)
Trump reportedly gives Netanyahu green light for full Gaza occupation
'Israeli' newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth reported that US President Donald Trump has given 'Israeli' Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu the “green light” to carry out a large-scale military operation against Hamas in the Gaza Strip.
According to sources cited by the 'Israeli' newspaper, a strategic decision has been made by the 'Israeli' leadership to move forward with a complete military takeover of the Gaza Strip and pursue what they described as a "military resolution" against Hamas. The planned operations, the report adds, are expected to target areas believed to contain captives.
The escalation, however, may not solely be a military maneuver. The report suggests that it could also serve as a negotiation tactic intended to pressure Hamas into progressing indirect talks on a potential prisoner exchange deal.
The sources further stated that any opposition to this plan from the military's top leadership would not be tolerated. “If the Chief of Staff does not agree with this approach, he should resign,” the sources reportedly said.
Read more: Netanyahu decides to fully occupy Gaza: Hebrew media
“Israeli” Prime Minister Benjamin Netnayahu told his government’s ministers he decided to fully occupy the Gaza Strip, according to reports by Hebrew media.
Netanyahu used the term “occupation of the Strip” in private conversations with the ministers, while outlining his vision for expanding military operations in Gaza.
The “Israeli” military will also start operating in areas where it hasn’t done so previously, including areas where captives are known to be held, according to a senior official close to Netanyahu cited by Yedioth Ahronoth.
“There will be operations even in areas where hostages are being held,” the official said.
“The die is cast — we are going for a full occupation of the Gaza Strip,” he added.
The “Israeli” military currently controls 75% of the Gaza Strip, and under Netanyahu’s plan, it is expected to occupy the entirety of the Strip.
