The Israeli leader has announced that he intends to convene his security cabinet in the coming days to direct the army on the next stage of the war, hinting that even tougher military action was an option in Gaza. Netanyahu stressed that he remains committed to achieving his war objectives, including defeating Hamas, releasing all hostages and ensuring Gaza never again threatens Israel.
Netanyahu (shown above) reportedly has been pushing the army, which already controls about three quarters of Gaza, to conquer the entire territory.
It is believed that army chief Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir opposes this step and could step down or be pushed out if it is approved, The Associated Press has reported.
Bob Maginnis is a retired army officer, national defense strategist and author of "Preparing for World War III."
Recent reports that Canada, France and the United Kingdom will soon recognize a Palestinian state have influenced the landscape. Basically, a complete takeover is Netanyahu’s last card to play, Maginnis says.
"Netanyahu has no good options. If he doesn't do anything, he's criticized. If he goes in and takes over the entire place and destroys Hamas, he gets criticized. And even our allies, Canadians, French, U.K. have said that they were ready to recognize a two-state solution basically, giving a boost to Hamas, which doesn't make a lot of sense diplomatically, but it's what it is, and so we're left with a no-win situation."
Maginnis thinks the Israeli leader has made a decision.
"It looks as if Netanyahu is likely to go in. I know that the army commander has on the record cautioned about full occupation. That being what it is, is because of the cost that they inherit as a result of going in and taking the the balance of 25% and then of course occupying all the Gaza Strip that does have a cost."
