It is 672 days since Israel launched all-out war on Gaza, in retaliation for the murder, rape and kidnap of its citizens of October 7, 2023.

The campaign’s declared objectives were to eliminate Hamas, the group responsible for that and numerous other horrendous terrorist actions, and to secure the release of the 251 hostages taken that day.

The Israeli Defence Forces have made significant progress. Targeted strikes have significantly weakened Hamas, eliminating its leaders and causing its remaining fighters to scatter. Almost 150 hostages have been safely returned, and over 50 bodies have been found.

In the process, a significant portion of Gaza has been decimated. The extent of civilian casualties has been devastating, drawing widespread international criticism.

Hamas is a ruthless and disorganized jihadist group, and the responsibility for this violent conflict rests primarily with them. However, there is growing scrutiny of Israel’s strategies, both domestically and globally.

There is suspicion that Israel’s prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, might be extending the conflict to satisfy hard-Right members of his cabinet, whose support is crucial for his coalition government’s survival.

His recent proposal to invade and occupy Gaza City has faced opposition within Israel. He argues it is a necessary step in a final effort to dismantle Hamas and rescue the hostages.

But will it really achieve either of those objectives? It is highly unlikely to hasten the release of the 20 or so surviving hostages. Indeed, it could further endanger them, which is why their families are vehemently opposed to the plan.

It is 672 days since Israel launched all-out war on Gaza in retaliation for the murder, rape and kidnap of its citizens of October 7, 2023

Much has been achieved by the Israeli Defence Forces. Hamas has been decapitated by targeted strikes on its leaders and its remaining fighters are on the run

In the process, however, much of Gaza has been reduced to rubble. The scale of civilian deaths has been heartbreaking and brought widespread international condemnation

It is also fraught with danger militarily, which is why Israel’s chief of defence staff is against it. His forces, largely conscripts and reservists, are profoundly fatigued after 22 months of fighting.

This offensive would involve the displacement of a million civilians, the deployment of many more troops, months of bitter fighting and yet more bloodshed.

Before ploughing ahead, Mr Netanyahu must carefully measure the potential benefits against the cost. And, if the occupation is successful, he must be clear about what comes next.

He says Israel doesn’t want to stay in Gaza once Hamas is eliminated but would hand it over to ‘Arab forces who will govern it properly without threatening us and giving Gazans a good life’.

But where would these saviours be found? Who would take on such a benighted, shattered enclave? If Hamas were removed, who would fill the vacuum? To paraphrase W.B. Yeats, what rough beast would be slouching towards Gaza to be born?

This paper yields to no one in its support for Israel’s right to self-defence against those who would destroy it. But no conflict can go on forever. Even in the midst of war, there must be a credible roadmap to peace.

While Prince Andrew is mired in yet more ghastly scandal and Harry continues to whine and snipe at Britain from his Californian mansion, one royal carries on doing what she has always done – putting service before self and quiet diligence before ostentation.

For years Princess Anne, 75 next week, has been the hardest working and among the most popular members of the family. A perfect blend of her parents, she has been a credit to the monarchy over the decades.

Along with Queen Camilla she is said to be the King’s most trusted adviser and a mentor to the Prince and Princess of Wales, and their children. They couldn’t wish for a better counsellor. The Daily Mail wishes the Princess Royal the happiest of birthdays.