Overview

• On August 5, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced plans to occupy the remaining 25 percent of the Gaza Strip despite objections from his military leadership
• Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir warned that a full occupation would take months to clear Hamas tunnels and risk the lives of roughly 50 remaining hostages
• The United Nations described reports of expanded operations as deeply alarming and cautioned such moves could violate international law and the future viability of a Palestinian state
• Israeli authorities estimate about 50 hostages remain in Gaza, only 20 of whom are believed alive, prompting President Trump to call for a single comprehensive release deal
• Gaza’s humanitarian situation is deteriorating rapidly, with one in five children under five in Gaza City acutely malnourished, fueling public protests against the blockade