Netanyahu Orders Full Gaza Seizure Amid Fury

Israeli In a dramatic escalation of tensions, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ordered the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) to take full control of the Gaza Strip. This fiery directive comes in the wake of newly released videos by Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad showing Israeli hostages still being held captive inside Gaza. The emotional and political pressure surrounding these videos appears to have pushed Netanyahu to issue what many are calling an ultimatum to his military leadership.

As of now, Israel claims control over approximately 75% of the Gaza territory, but Netanyahu is no longer willing to accept partial measures. According to sources close to the Israeli cabinet, he told IDF Chief Herzi Halevi either to launch a campaign to seize the remaining 25% of the territory — or step down from his position. This stark warning underlines Netanyahu’s growing frustration with the pace of military operations and the rising domestic outcry over the unresolved hostage situation.

The hostage videos, which began circulating late Monday night, are a painful reminder to the Israeli public that more than 100 captives remain in Gaza. Families of the abducted have been demanding swifter and more decisive action for months. With public protests intensifying across cities like Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, the government finds itself under immense pressure to show results.

Netanyahu, who has faced intense criticism both at home and abroad for his handling of the war, seems to be pivoting toward a more aggressive strategy. In a televised address, he said, “Israel will not stop until all our citizens are home. We cannot let terrorists dictate our national policy.” While he stopped short of confirming a complete re-occupation of Gaza, the language he used clearly signals a hardline shift.

The international community is watching with increasing concern. Humanitarian agencies have warned of devastating consequences if urban warfare spreads to the remaining densely populated areas of southern Gaza. Civilian casualties are already staggering, with thousands dead and countless others injured or displaced since the conflict reignited.

Military experts are divided on the feasibility of Netanyahu’s demand. Some say that complete military control of Gaza would require months of brutal combat and come at a high cost to both sides. Others argue that it may be the only way to bring the hostages back and re-establish security in the region.

Meanwhile, in Gaza, the atmosphere remains tense and grim. Civilians, many of whom have already endured relentless bombings, are bracing for further escalations. Human rights organizations have pleaded for ceasefire talks and humanitarian corridors, but such appeals are falling on deaf ears.

As Israel prepares for what could be the final and most intense phase of the war, the world watches anxiously. One thing is certain: the road ahead is paved with uncertainty, and every decision now carries enormous weight — for leaders, soldiers, and civilians on both sides of the border.