Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s push to change the proposed Gaza plan has raised fears that the war could continue indefinitely, rather than moving towards a political settlement.
The controversy centres on Netanyahu’s reported support for a more extensive Israeli military operation in Gaza. Critics argue that expanding military control could make it harder to achieve a ceasefire, secure the release of hostages and establish a credible political framework for governing Gaza after the war.
Supporters of Netanyahu’s approach say continued military pressure is necessary to weaken Hamas, prevent further attacks against Israel and create the conditions for long-term security. Netanyahu has also faced pressure from members of his governing coalition who favour a tougher military policy.
However, opponents warn that a wider offensive could result in more civilian deaths and displacement while deepening humanitarian suffering in Gaza. They also argue that military action alone cannot resolve the underlying Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
The biggest concern is what happens after any expanded Israeli military operation. Without an agreed plan for Gaza's governance, reconstruction and security, the conflict could become a cycle of repeated military operations and renewed armed resistance.
Netanyahu's critics therefore fear that his approach could undermine diplomatic efforts and turn what was supposed to be a path towards ending the war into a strategy that keeps the conflict going for years.