Israel to Seize Gaza City

Geopolitical Analysis - Lasting peace is considered distant, with immediate focus on a ceasefire [1] - The Israeli government, under Netanyahu, views a military campaign to eliminate Hamas as essential for Israel's security [1] - The world is reacting with increased concern due to mass starvation and tens of thousands of Palestinian deaths in Gaza [2][3] - Some governments are recognizing a state of Palestine to compel Israel to change its approach [3] Military Strategy - Senior Israeli officials suggest that there is no strategic military objective left, only tactical ones [5] - The continuation of the war is seen as a political decision by Netanyahu, dependent on achieving a complete victory over Hamas [6] - Israel has reportedly eliminated almost the entire top three levels of Hamas leadership and secured the border [13][14] Political Considerations - Netanyahu's political survival is potentially tied to the ongoing war, as it helps him maintain support from the far right [12][14] - Ending the war could lead to the collapse of the current coalition government and new elections [15] - Netanyahu's political and legal problems, including corruption cases, may not be resolved by the next election in October 2026, potentially benefiting from the war's continuation [16] Post-Conflict Plans - Netanyahu claims he doesn't want Israel to govern Gaza long term, envisioning a civilian-led Gazan entity with Arab assistance [7][8] - There has been a lack of an acceptable diplomatic solution from Israel for almost two years [9] - Arab states are hesitant to cooperate with Israel while the Israeli military is present in Gaza, fearing complicity [10][11]