Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced a dual-track strategy Thursday: approving military plans to seize Gaza City while pursuing hostage negotiations. The move comes amid fragile ceasefire talks mediated by Egypt and Qatar, creating a high-stakes geopolitical cliffhanger. 🎢
Military Moves & Diplomatic Dance
Netanyahu declared during a military base visit: "We’re preparing to take control of Gaza City and defeat Hamas." Meanwhile, 80,000 reservists have been mobilized – a scale not seen since October’s initial escalation. 📈
Hostage Deal Hopes
While claiming to pursue "immediate negotiations" for hostage releases, Israel hasn’t sent delegations to Doha or Cairo yet. Hamas accepted a temporary truce proposal earlier this week, but Israel remains silent on the terms. 🤝
Netanyahu’s Five Conditions
The Israeli leader outlined non-negotiable demands for ending hostilities:
Complete Hamas disarmament
Release of all hostages
Gaza demilitarization
Israeli security control over the enclave
New non-Hamas administration (excluding Palestinian Authority)
As night fell Thursday, Netanyahu’s security cabinet prepared to finalize the Gaza City operation plan. With tanks massing and diplomats texting, the region holds its breath. 💣➡️🕊️
