Israel Plans Expanded Gaza Military Operation to Free Hostages

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is reportedly preparing to expand military operations in the Gaza Strip to free the remaining Israeli hostages held by Hamas, despite concerns that this could endanger the captives further. The Israeli government plans to operate in areas previously avoided to protect hostages, including parts of central Gaza, with possible annexation of the buffer zone and northern areas. Netanyahu has declared a firm resolve to crush Hamas and achieve a decisive military victory, citing harrowing hostage videos that depict captives suffering severe starvation and abuse. While diplomatic efforts, including U.S.-led proposals to secure an all-or-nothing hostage release and ceasefire, continue, Netanyahu and his administration appear skeptical of Hamas's willingness to negotiate. This stance has drawn criticism from hostages' families and over 600 retired Israeli security officials, who warn that expanding the conflict risks turning surviving hostages into casualties. The Trump administration reportedly supports Netanyahu's approach to annex Gaza if Hamas refuses a ceasefire, adding complexity to the ongoing conflict amid global humanitarian concerns.