Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced a new military plan aimed at ending the ongoing war in Gaza. Speaking at a press conference in Jerusalem on August 10, 2025, he called the strategy "the best way to end the war" and said it would be executed on a "fairly short timetable." The announcement comes ahead of a UN Security Council meeting focused on the Gaza crisis.

The war, now lasting more than 22 months, began after a deadly Hamas attack on Israel in 2023. Netanyahu's new plan focuses on targeting the two remaining Hamas strongholds in Gaza City and the central camps in Al Mawasi. He says about 70–75% of Gaza is already under Israeli military control, and the operation will include secure corridors and safe zones for civilians.

The decision has sparked widespread debate within Israel. Thousands protested in Tel Aviv, with critics warning the plan could endanger hostages and soldiers. Some far-right ministers say the plan does not go far enough, while others call for complete control of Gaza.

Internationally, the move has drawn sharp criticism. UN officials warn it could trigger more displacement and civilian casualties, and foreign powers are urging Israel to agree to a negotiated truce to return hostages and ease the humanitarian crisis.

Despite growing pressure, Netanyahu insists Israel must complete the mission and defeat Hamas entirely. He emphasized that Israel does not intend to occupy Gaza permanently but will seek a civilian administration not linked to Hamas or the Palestinian Authority.

According to Gaza's health ministry, over 61,000 Palestinians have died since the conflict began. In Israel, the Hamas attack in 2023 killed 1,219 people.

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