‘We Are Making Progress’ Netanyahu Vows Full Control of Gaza Amid Israel New Offensive
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said his country is making “intense” progress and vowed full territorial control over Gaza, as the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) escalated their campaign against Hamas militants across the war-torn enclave.
In a video address shared via Telegram, Netanyahu asserted, “The fighting is intense and we are making progress. We will take control of all the territory of the Strip. We will not give up.”
Netanyahu also acknowledged growing global concern over the deteriorating humanitarian conditions in Gaza. “We must not let the population sink into famine, both for practical and diplomatic reasons. Even our friends won’t tolerate images of mass starvation,” he said, justifying Israel’s decision to allow a “basic amount” of food into the territory.
The Israeli military on Monday confirmed it had begun “extensive ground operations” in targeted areas of Gaza, including northern and central sectors, with at least 22 people reported killed in the latest wave of airstrikes.
This marks a significant escalation in a conflict that has continued unabated for months, even as international mediators push for a ceasefire.
Israel has faced mounting calls, including from its closest ally, the United States, to ease its blockade on Gaza, which has choked the flow of essential aid and left much of the population without food, water, or electricity.
A joint UN and NGO-backed food security analysis this month warned that Gaza is at “critical risk of famine,” with more than 22% of the population facing an “imminent catastrophe.”
Netanyahu’s remarks follow earlier controversial comments made by former U.S. President Donald Trump in February, in which he claimed the U.S. would “take over” Gaza and rebuild it into the “Riviera of the Middle East.” Netanyahu later endorsed the proposal, calling it a “committed plan.”
As the conflict enters another intensified phase, diplomatic efforts remain stalled. The humanitarian situation continues to deteriorate, and the international community remains divided over the way forward.
