forces as the Security Cabinet discussed widening its 22-month offensive, with talks ongoing on a broader Gaza campaign. In an interview with Fox News, when asked if Israel would “take control of all of Gaza,” Netanyahu replied, “We intend to, in order to assure our security, remove Hamas there, enable the population to be free of Gaza.” He noted that the Security Cabinet would still need to approve such a decision.

“We don’t want to keep it. We want to have a security perimeter,” Netanyahu said. “We want to hand it over to Arab forces that will govern it properly without threatening us and giving Gazans a good life.” An Israeli official earlier said the Security Cabinet would hold a lengthy debate and approve an expanded military plan to conquer all or parts of Gaza not yet under Israeli control. The official, who spoke on condition of anonymity pending a formal decision, said any approval would be implemented gradually to increase pressure on Hamas. In Gaza, where Israel’s air and ground war has killed tens of thousands, displaced most of the population, and caused severe hunger, Palestinians braced for further misery. Local hospitals reported dozens of fatalities in Thursday airstrikes and shootings across southern Gaza.

Netanyahu has met with advisers this week to discuss ways to “further achieve Israel’s goals in Gaza” after ceasefire talks collapsed last month. The Security Cabinet began meeting Thursday evening and was expected to continue into the night. Israel already controls about 75% of Gaza. Expanding operations could further isolate Israel internationally, as several close Western allies urged an end to the war and more humanitarian aid. Hostage families in Israel pledged protests Thursday, fearing escalation could imperil their loved ones. (Jamaica Gleaner)