Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced plans to intensify military operations in Gaza by mobilizing tens of thousands of reserve soldiers, aiming to decisively defeat Hamas. However, skepticism remains about whether this increased military presence will achieve Israel’s objectives, given the ongoing 18-month conflict that has already involved significant military engagement without fully dismantling Hamas or releasing all hostages. The humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate as Israel has blocked essential aid and renewed bombardments, raising concerns about escalating violence. Critics, including former military intelligence chief Tamir Hayman and opposition leader Yair Lapid, question the effectiveness of purely military solutions, advocating for alternative strategies. The families of hostages have urged the government to prioritize negotiations for their release, warning that expanded military actions could endanger their loved ones further.

Prime Minister Netanyahu believes that expanding military operations with additional reserve soldiers will bring about a decisive victory over Hamas, despite 18 months of conflict showing limited progress towards Israel's goals. This strategic shift aims to exert greater military pressure on Hamas, yet questions persist about its potential effectiveness.

Despite the ongoing conflict, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza has worsened, with Israel imposing blockades on essential supplies like food and medicine. The renewed airstrikes further compound the precarious situation, raising international concerns about the plight of civilians caught in the crossfire.

Tamir Hayman, a former intelligence chief, argues that military efforts alone are insufficient to eliminate Hamas, suggesting that the group has been significantly weakened and could be managed post-conflict. This perspective highlights the limitations of relying solely on military force and suggests exploring diplomatic avenues.

The Israeli military's lack of transparency regarding the deployment of reservists has fueled speculation about the strategic aims of the operation. Some officials suggest that achieving operational superiority in Gaza is the primary objective, yet the broader implications for regional stability remain uncertain.

The Trump administration has pushed for a cease-fire, but Hamas demands an Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, while Israel insists on Hamas disarmament, leading to an impasse. This diplomatic standoff underscores the complexity of achieving lasting peace in the region.

Domestically, the call-up of soldiers serves to reassure Netanyahu's hard-line supporters, who have criticized the government's inability to completely eradicate Hamas. The political dimensions of military strategy play a significant role in shaping public perception and policy decisions.

The organization representing hostage families has publicly urged the government to avoid further military escalation, emphasizing the risk to hostages' lives. This plea highlights the human cost of prolonged conflict and the urgent need for a resolution that prioritizes humanitarian concerns.