Israel prepares for new phase of Gaza war

Tuesday 05 August 2025 - 10:30

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is expected to convene his security cabinet on Tuesday to discuss launching a new phase of the war in Gaza. The meeting comes amid mounting pressure both domestically and internationally over the fate of Israeli hostages and the worsening humanitarian situation in the besieged enclave.

According to Israeli media, the meeting will include top military and defense officials. Although not officially confirmed, reports indicate Netanyahu is pushing for a full military takeover of the Gaza Strip, especially in areas suspected of housing hostages. “The decision has been made. We are heading for total conquest,” reported the Ma'ariv daily, echoing similar reports across the Israeli press.

Israel has been at war with Hamas since October 7, 2023, when the Palestinian group launched an unprecedented attack inside Israeli territory, killing 1,219 people, mostly civilians. In response, Israeli military operations have killed at least 60,933 people in Gaza, according to Gaza's Health Ministry figures, which are considered reliable by the United Nations.

Meanwhile, the UN Security Council is set to hold a special session on Tuesday to address the hostage situation. The Israeli government, led by Netanyahu, seeks to place the issue "at the center of the global agenda."

Earlier on Tuesday, the Israeli defense ministry’s COGAT agency announced a partial reopening for private goods into Gaza, allowing limited shipments of essential items such as baby formula, vegetables, and hygiene products. However, the process remains heavily restricted and under strict security controls to avoid any benefit to Hamas.

Despite these steps, humanitarian organizations and UN officials argue the aid is far from sufficient. UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk warned on Monday that denying civilians access to food may amount to a war crime or even a crime against humanity.

Videos released recently by Hamas and Islamic Jihad showing frail Israeli hostages have reignited public demands for a ceasefire and hostage release deal. Many Israelis, particularly families of the captives, accuse Netanyahu of prolonging the conflict at the cost of their loved ones' lives.