Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has signalled he will seek authorisation for a complete military takeover of the Gaza Strip and will convene his security cabinet on Thursday to discuss the plan, according to multiple Israeli media outlets citing senior officials. A source quoted by Channel 12 said “the die is cast” and suggested any dissenting commanders should resign, underscoring the hard line coming from the premier’s office after the collapse of indirect cease-fire talks with Hamas. The proposal faces resistance within Israel’s defence establishment. Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir, backed by several generals, has warned that seizing the final 25 % of Gaza could endanger the roughly 50 hostages still held by Hamas and stretch the army for years. Netanyahu held a three-hour strategy session on Tuesday in which Zamir presented alternatives focused on encirclement rather than re-occupation. United Nations officials told the Security Council such an escalation would be “extremely concerning” if confirmed. Israel already exercises operational control over about three-quarters of the enclave; the pending plan would extend forces into Gaza City, Deir al-Balah and other central areas where most of Gaza’s 2.2 million residents are now concentrated. Opinion polls cited by local media show most Israelis prefer a deal to retrieve the hostages, while far-right coalition partners continue to press for outright annexation. Even as it weighs a broader offensive, Israel moved to ease pressure on Gaza’s civilian population. COGAT, the military body that coordinates aid, said the cabinet has approved a mechanism for the "gradual and controlled" entry of private-sector goods, including staple foods, baby formula, fresh produce and hygiene products, via vetted local traders. The agency said the step should boost daily deliveries and lower reliance on United Nations convoys amid mounting warnings of famine.