The situation in Southeast Gaza is becoming increasingly tense. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the international community on May 13, announcing that the Israeli army will fully conclude its large-scale military operation in the Gaza Strip in the coming days.
“Our goal is clear and straightforward: concluding the operation means completely eliminating HAMAS. We will begin this task in the coming days and are determined to see it through to the end,” Netanyahu stated in his speech.
According to him, if HAMAS wishes to free the Israeli captives, this proposal will be considered. However, at the same time, the military operation will not be halted but will continue consistently.
“We will not stop the war”: Direct signal from Netanyahu
The Prime Minister emphasized that Israel has no intention of stopping the war under any circumstances. Only the possibility of a temporary ceasefire may be discussed.
US as a mediator, Trump hopeful for reconciliation
US President Donald Trump also commented on the situation. According to him, the release of American citizen, soldier Iden Alexander, held captive by the HAMAS movement in Palestine on May 12, could be “one of the final steps necessary to end the conflict.”
Hope for peace and unfulfilled agreements
It is worth noting that at the beginning of 2025, a reconciliation agreement was signed between Israel and HAMAS with the mediation of Egypt, Qatar, and the US. According to this agreement, within 42 days, 25 out of 33 hostages were released, while unfortunately, the remaining 8 lost their lives in captivity.
However, the second phase of the reconciliation — negotiations for a ceasefire — has completely stalled. In March, Israel launched new offensive actions, revitalizing its operations in the Gaza Strip.
Conclusion: Approaching a decisive phase in Gaza
Israel's announcement that its operational activities in Gaza have entered a concluding phase could complicate the situation in the region further. On one hand, it may seem that the end of the war is near, while on the other hand, political negotiations and humanitarian issues remain unresolved.
The Zamin.uz editorial team is closely monitoring the situation. We will continue to deliver the most important events in the international arena to our readers promptly and impartially.
