Israel’s Security Cabinet is slated to convene on Tuesday to deliberate future actions regarding the nearly two-year conflict with the Hamas group in the Gaza Strip. This includes contemplating taking comprehensive control of the Palestinian region and conducting military operations in previously avoided areas, as reported by local media.

Renowned Israeli journalist Amit Segal, who serves as a commentator for Channel 12, the nation’s leading news station, cited a source from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office. According to the source, the “decision has been made… we are going to occupy the Gaza Strip.”

The official purportedly stated that “Hamas will not release hostages unless they completely surrender. Without immediate action, the hostages may perish from hunger, and Gaza will continue under Hamas’ rule,” Segal reported.

In Israel, there is mounting pressure to conclude the war and secure the return of approximately 50 hostages, alive or deceased, still in Gaza. The nation’s leaders remain split on the most effective strategy to fulfill this goal.

Figures like Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir within Netanyahu’s administration are advocating for reclaiming Gaza and reinstating Jewish settlements dismantled two decades ago.

However, the Israeli military has expressed opposition to this plan and is anticipated, per media reports, to suggest alternatives at the upcoming cabinet meeting on Tuesday.