Israel Nears Military Escalation, Gaza Annexation After Ceasefire Collapse

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is convening his security cabinet to determine Israel's next steps in Gaza following the collapse of US-backed ceasefire negotiations with Hamas. The failed talks aimed at a 60-day truce involving humanitarian aid and partial hostage release, but Netanyahu and Israeli officials now lean toward expanding military operations, potentially annexing parts of Gaza. US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff's recent visit signaled a shared understanding between Washington and Israel about the need to disarm Hamas, release all hostages, and demilitarize Gaza, though Israeli officials doubt Hamas's willingness to negotiate and are preparing for a military defeat of the group. Netanyahu has emphasized achieving all war objectives, including defeating Hamas and securing hostages' release, amid rising public pressure and criticism from former officials calling to end the conflict. Hamas demands urgent humanitarian aid before resuming talks, while the UN reports a worsening humanitarian crisis with many Palestinian deaths. Within Israel, government figures debate the extent of military actions and potential annexation, reflecting internal divisions about the conflict's future direction.