Mounting Tensions: Netanyahu Weighs Expanded Gaza Military Campaign Amid Domestic and Global Outcry

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is contemplating the expansion of military operations in Gaza, despite facing significant backlash both locally and internationally. This controversial plan comes amid a nearly two-year conflict characterized by high casualties and internal divisions within Israel's leadership. The security cabinet meeting follows a tense briefing with the head of the military, who opposes the expansion.

With public opinion largely favoring a cessation of hostilities, the situation is emblematic of the broader complexities faced by Israel in its dealings with Hamas, the Palestinian militant group responsible for sparking the conflict with an October 2023 attack. Calls for negotiation and a peaceful resolution intensify, with hostages' families particularly vocal about avoiding further danger.

The humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues to deepen; aid organizations warn of a looming famine as displacement rates rise among the enclave's 2 million residents. The international community remains alarmed by any potential enlargement of Israel's military operations, while domestic political factions pressure Netanyahu's government to achieve decisive victory over Hamas.

(With inputs from agencies.)