The Israeli military has projected full operational control over 75% of the Gaza Strip within the next two months as part of its ongoing military campaign. It currently claims to control more than 40% of the territory, according to Israeli Channel 7.
A military spokesperson said that the safety of hostages remains a priority and efforts continue to avoid harming them. The spokesperson added that sustained military pressure is viewed as critical to weakening Hamas and achieving the return of hostages.
A senior Israeli military official told the channel that Hamas is now in a significantly weakened state, under heavy pressure, and facing a dead end after most of its senior leadership has been eliminated and its governing capacity has declined.
Separately, Israel’s i24NEWS reported that the U.S. has asked Israel to delay a full-scale ground offensive in Gaza to allow more time for hostage negotiations. The American request reportedly includes two points: postponement of a wide ground invasion and continuation of limited military operations alongside diplomatic talks.
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