Senior officials from the office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have stated that “the decision has been made – Israel is moving forward with the occupation of the Gaza Strip.”

According to those same officials, cited by Channel 12, “Hamas will not release any more hostages without total surrender, and we will not give in. If we do not act now, the hostages will die of starvation and Gaza will remain under Hamas control.”

Meanwhile, according to the Jerusalem Post, the order has also been conveyed to the Chief of the Armed Forces, along with a clear and strict ultimatum:
“If you do not agree with this decision, then resign.”