Israel Moves to Seize More Territory Amid Rising Violence

Tensions continue to escalate in Gaza as Israel moves forward with what appears to be its most significant territorial seizure yet. Israeli officials, including Israel Katz, have made bold statements advocating for the expulsion of Palestinians from Gaza. However, veteran journalist Gideon Levy argues that such rhetoric, while alarming, does not necessarily dictate Israeli policy.

Netanyahu Holds the Power

Speaking to Harretz columnist Gideon Levy, it became clear that while figures like Katz make inflammatory statements, the real decisions rest in the hands of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Levy dismissed Katz as a political figure seeking to appeal to his right-wing base, stating:

“Katz can post all kinds of things on social media, claiming Israel will conquer Iran, Iraq, and Syria. It’s totally irrelevant. The real decision-maker is Netanyahu.”

Despite this, Levy acknowledged that Katz’s remarks reflect a troubling reality: Israel is acting without restraint. He warned that with the U.S. and the international community stepping back, Israel is “free to go wild again over Gaza,” leading to a continued humanitarian catastrophe.

A War Without Purpose

The war, which has now dragged on for months, appears to lack a clear goal. While Israel initially justified its military actions as necessary to dismantle Hamas and secure the release of hostages, Levy argues that this reasoning no longer holds:

“Nobody can take seriously the claim that this pressure will free the hostages. We know by now that pressure does not save them.”

Levy expressed deep concern that the conflict has become a cycle of violence with no end in sight, stating:

“The bloodbath continues daily, and innocent people are being killed with no clear objective. If in the early stages of the war there was a defined goal, that is no longer the case.”

The Occupation Debate

While some Israeli officials deny that the offensive amounts to reoccupation, Levy sees clear evidence of intent. He warns that, with no international intervention, Israel may take permanent control of parts of Gaza.

“Yes, the intention right now is to reoccupy at least parts of Gaza. And the problem is, as I said, there is no one to stop Israel.”

International Inaction and the Future of Gaza

With ceasefire talks failing to produce results, Levy fears that the war will continue indefinitely. He sees no pathway to peace as long as both sides remain entrenched:

“Hamas will not give up because they have little to lose. Israel cannot be stopped because there is no one to stop them. This bloodbath will continue until the world wakes up—but unfortunately, I don’t see that happening.”

As Gaza faces relentless bombardment and the humanitarian crisis worsens, the world watches, largely powerless to intervene. The question remains: How much longer can this war continue before international pressure forces a resolution?