Netanyahu visits northern Gaza amid military offensive

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited the northern Gaza Strip amidst ongoing military operations, as Israeli troops work to expand a 'security zone' in the area. The reasons for his visit were not disclosed, but it coincided with efforts to pressure Hamas for the release of hostages taken during the unprecedented attack on October 7, 2023, which resulted in significant casualties. Netanyahu faces conflicting pressures from families of hostages seeking a deal with Hamas and coalition partners advocating for the continuation of military action. Reports indicate that Defense Minister Israel Katz has threatened to permanently occupy parts of Gaza as part of the strategy to secure hostages' release. Since the outbreak of the war, tens of thousands have reportedly died in Gaza due to Israeli military operations. The Israeli government maintains that military action will persist until the remaining hostages are freed and Gaza is demilitarized.