JERUSALEM/CAIRO: A senior Israeli minister has sparked global concern by suggesting that Israel may annex parts of Gaza as a pressure tactic against Hamas. Zeev Elkin, a member of Israel's security cabinet, said the potential loss of land would serve as a powerful tool to compel Hamas into a ceasefire agreement.

His comments come amid rising international pressure. Britain and France have both announced intentions to recognize a Palestinian state by September unless Israel moves toward a ceasefire and relieves humanitarian conditions in Gaza. These moves are strongly supported by Egypt, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the Arab League.

Israel, however, views the recognition of Palestinian statehood as a reward for Hamas. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu criticized Britain's stance, saying it "rewards Hamas' monstrous terrorism" following the group's October 2023 attack that ignited the war.

Elkin claimed Hamas is intentionally stalling negotiations to extract more concessions. He hinted that an ultimatum might be delivered: agree to a deal or face the permanent loss of territory. "The most painful thing for our enemy is losing lands," he said.

Peace talks mediated by global powers have stalled, and prospects for a truce remain slim. Elkin's statement raises fears of a long-term shift in Israeli policy from containment to outright annexation.

Far-right voices in Netanyahu's cabinet are openly calling for full control of Palestinian lands. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich declared that rebuilding Jewish settlements in Gaza is "closer than ever," asserting that Gaza is "an inseparable part of the Land of Israel."

https://www.arabnews.com/node/2610018/middle-east