Netanyahu Pledges Complete Hamas Defeat Amid Gaza Deaths

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reaffirmed Israel's commitment to a new military offensive aimed at defeating Hamas by taking control of Gaza City, describing it as essential to ending the war and liberating Gaza from Hamas terrorists. Netanyahu insists the goal is not to occupy Gaza permanently but to establish a civilian administration independent of both Hamas and the Palestinian Authority, while Israel maintains overriding security responsibility. He outlined a postwar vision including Hamas disarmament, freeing hostages, Gaza's demilitarization, and creating safe zones for civilians to evacuate. Despite international criticism and protests within Israel calling for peace and warning of a prolonged conflict, Netanyahu defends the military plan as the best way to end hostilities quickly and denies allegations of a starvation policy, blaming Hamas for obstructing aid. The Israeli military is preparing for a rapid offensive, while humanitarian conditions in Gaza remain dire with rising casualties and restricted aid distribution amid ongoing violence. Opposition voices, including family members of hostages and former Israeli officials, warn the expanded offensive risks further bloodshed and jeopardizes hostages' lives.