Israel: Right-wing extremist politicians call for intensification in Gaza

At a meeting of the so-called security cabinet on Tuesday evening, the ultra-right finance minister Bezalel Smotrich and other ministers called for a much tougher approach, Israeli media reported. This would include a major ground offensive to conquer the Gaza Strip with the call-up of numerous reservists. The aim is to completely destroy the Hamas terrorist organization.

However, the broadcaster Kan reported, citing a senior government representative, that Israel wanted to give indirect negotiations with Hamas on a new ceasefire another chance.

The last ceasefire phase ended a month ago after Israel and Hamas were unable to agree on the modalities for the next phase. The Israeli armed forces then resumed their attacks in the Gaza Strip. According to Israeli sources, 24 hostages are still being held there, as well as the bodies of 35 kidnapped people.

The Gaza war was triggered by the attack on Israel by Hamas and other extremist groups on October 7, 2023, in which around 1,200 people were killed and more than 250 Israelis were taken hostage in the Gaza Strip. According to the Hamas-controlled health authority in the Gaza Strip, more than 51,200 people have been killed since then.