Netanyahu Promises Gaza War Resumption After 60-Day Truce Amid Coalition Pressure

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has repeatedly rejected ceasefire opportunities and prioritized maintaining his coalition and political power amid corruption charges, according to an investigation by The New York Times Magazine. Netanyahu has assured far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich that after a proposed 60-day ceasefire with Hamas currently being negotiated in Doha, Israel will resume its military campaign against Gaza. In closed-door meetings, Netanyahu outlined plans to move Gaza's civilian population south and impose a siege on northern Gaza, framing these measures as necessary to separate civilians from Hamas and continue military operations. He has been working to secure the support of far-right ministers who oppose any ceasefire that leaves Hamas in power, with threats from Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir to leave the coalition if a deal is reached. Netanyahu cited distractions from last month's conflict with Iran as reasons for delays in more aggressive action but promised now that the military will follow his instructions fully. These developments highlight the political and military complexities behind the Gaza conflict and Israel's approach to the ceasefire negotiations.