World News Israel: Benjamin Netanyahu Says Military Takeover is the 'Best Way to End the War'

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has defended his plan for a military takeover of Gaza City as the fastest way to end the long-running conflict with Hamas. Speaking at a rare press conference on 10 August 2025, Netanyahu said this military action would bring a swift conclusion to the war and ensure Israel's security.

The plan stirred strong reactions globally amid warnings from the United Nations about a worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

Netanyahu Defends Military Takeover in Gaza

Netanyahu insisted that Israel faces no alternative but to finish the defeat of Hamas. He called Gaza City and the central camps of Al Mawasi the two last Hamas strongholds needing to be dismantled to end the conflict.

'Contrary to false claims, this is the best way to end the war and the best way to end it speedily,' said the prime minister via CNN.

Rejecting accusations of causing starvation in Gaza, Netanyahu accused Hamas of intentionally looting aid supplies to create hardship. He also stressed that the takeover is vital for rescuing Israeli hostages held by Hamas.

While he did not reply directly to US President Donald Trump's remarks about real starvation in Gaza, Netanyahu expressed appreciation for Trump's support. He described his military plan as the surest path to ending the war quickly, avoiding further prolongation.

'Our goal is not to occupy Gaza, our goal is to free Gaza,' said Netanyahu.

Military Takeover to Include Other Areas

Following cabinet approval on 8 August 2025, Israeli forces plan to expand their control beyond the roughly 75% of Gaza they already occupy after nearly two years of fighting. The operation targets Gaza City and the central refugee camps in Al Mawasi.

This marks a significant move toward near-total occupation of Gaza, a level of control Israel has not exercised for nearly 20 years. Netanyahu underlined that the offensive would start soon, emphasising the importance of completing the mission given Hamas' refusal to disarm.

UN Warns About Military Takeover's Impact

The United Nations issued stern warnings about the military expansion's humanitarian consequences, as per The Guardian. Miroslav Jenca, UN Assistant Secretary-General, cautioned that the operation could trigger a new calamity, causing displacement, killings, and destruction across the region.

Ramesh Rajasingham from the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs confirmed that starvation in Gaza is no longer just a threat but a reality, with malnutrition-related child deaths rising sharply.

UNICEF reported nearly 12,000 cases of acute malnutrition in July alone, the highest ever recorded monthly figure. The UN blamed Israel's blockade and restrictions on aid access for worsening the crisis.

Israel Faces Global Condemnation

Israel's plan drew widespread international criticism. Several countries, including the UK, Russia, China, France, Denmark, and others, condemned the takeover as a violation of international law and warned it would worsen the bloodshed. The British Deputy Ambassador to the UN warned that the plan would deepen Palestinian civilian suffering.

Algeria called for sanctions on Israel, labelling it 'the enemy of humanity'. Massive protests erupted worldwide, notably in London and Sydney, with arrests during demonstrations. Inside Israel, families of hostages called for a general strike.

While many nations denounced the plan, the US maintained its strong support for Israel, dismissing critics and accusing Hamas of prolonging the conflict by holding hostages. Israeli officials framed the conflict as a defence against the 'most horrific attack' on Jewish people since the Holocaust.

Tensions remain high as the military operation enters this crucial phase. The world watches closely as Gaza faces what could be its most intense period yet in this prolonged conflict.