Israel Pushes Deeper Into Gaza as Hostage Crisis Drags On
The Israeli military has deployed all of its standing infantry and armored brigades into Gaza, launching what Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called an “unprecedented operation” in an effort to crush Hamas and rescue the remaining hostages. In a detailed report for The Media Line, Keren Setton unpacks how this massive escalation is reshaping the battlefield—and Israel’s domestic politics.
The offensive, branded “Operation Gideon’s Chariots,” follows a weekend of heavy bombardment, international criticism, and psychological warfare. Many Israelis received disturbing phone calls featuring recorded pleas from hostages, reportedly accompanied by the sound of explosions. The Israel National Cyber Directorate called it “an attempt to create panic.”
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As of now, 58 hostages remain in Hamas captivity. Netanyahu says 20 are still alive and insists Israel is open to a temporary ceasefire—if it brings them home. But the stakes are high. Israel’s military plan includes isolating the southern Gaza city of Rafah and constructing the so-called Morag Corridor to split the territory and contain Hamas. Aid is being channeled through American-backed distribution centers, but Israel is keeping its soldiers at a distance—hoping to avoid handing out food at gunpoint.
Critics at home and abroad are questioning the cost. “Israel is inching closer to military rule in Gaza,” warns analyst Shaul Bartal. Meanwhile, civilian casualties continue to climb, and global pressure intensifies.
Keren Setton’s full report explores whether this bold strategy can bring results—or if it will leave Israel stuck in an endless war, with few options left on the table.
