Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is reportedly preparing to propose a controversial plan to annex sections of the Gaza Strip, according to a report by the Israeli newspaper Haaretz. The proposal, set to be presented to Israel’s security cabinet, comes amid escalating tensions, with Netanyahu warning of the move unless Hamas accepts a ceasefire agreement within days. The plan underscores Israel’s hardening stance despite widespread condemnation of its military campaign in Gaza and mounting humanitarian concerns.
The Haaretz report suggests Netanyahu’s strategy aims to appease far-right factions within his governing coalition, which reject concessions such as halting military operations or expanding aid to Gaza. Israel has repeatedly stated it will only end hostilities if Hamas disarms, surrenders, and agrees to exile — demands the militant group has consistently dismissed. The prime minister’s reported annexation threat signals a potential shift toward prolonged control over parts of the territory, a move likely to inflame regional tensions and draw further international backlash.
Global outrage has intensified in recent weeks, fueled by harrowing images of malnutrition among Gaza’s children and allegations of deliberate aid blockades exacerbating famine-like conditions. French President Emmanuel Macron announced plans for France to formally recognize Palestinian statehood by September, while the United Kingdom indicated it may do the same unless Israel commits to a ceasefire and sustained peace negotiations within eight weeks. These developments reflect growing impatience among traditional Western allies with Israel’s wartime policies.
Ceasefire negotiations have meanwhile reached an impasse. Last week, Israel and the U.S. withdrew their delegations from talks in Qatar, accusing Hamas of intransigence. A senior Hamas official, Khalil al-Hayya, countered by alleging that Israel had sabotaged discussions, calling further dialogue “pointless” under ongoing military and economic restrictions. The collapse of diplomacy leaves little immediate hope for de-escalation, even as humanitarian organizations warn of catastrophic suffering in Gaza, where over a million displaced civilians face severe shortages of food, water, and medical supplies.
Netanyahu’s dual challenges — balancing domestic political survival against escalating global isolation — highlight the precarious path ahead. Analysts note that annexation risks violating international law and could destabilize already fragile relations with neighboring Arab states. With no clear resolution in sight, the humanitarian toll continues to deepen, leaving the international community grappling with how to address both immediate crises and longer-term geopolitical ramifications.
