Netanyahu approved the takeover of Gaza City, and negotiations for the hostages are ongoing.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that he has given the green light to the Israeli Army's plans for the capture of Gaza City, which he described as a "decisive" stage of the war against Hamas.

During a visit to the Gaza Division, Netanyahu stated that he, together with the Defense Minister, approved the plans presented by the Chief of Staff and the military leadership for the offensive on the city.

"We are at a crucial moment. I have ordered the immediate resumption of negotiations for the release of all our hostages and the end of the war under Israel's terms," he said.

The prime minister emphasized that both objectives—defeating Hamas and ensuring the release of the hostages—"go hand in hand".

According to a political source, Netanyahu was impressed by the strength of the operational plans presented.

In the meeting, in addition to Defense Minister Israel Katz and Chief of Staff, Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir, other senior officials such as Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir participated.

Lieutenant General Zamir addressed the Kfir infantry brigades and armored units deployed in Khan Younis, reminding them that the upcoming operation on Gaza City is part of the army's central strategy.

"We already have forces operating around the city, and others will join shortly. We won't rest until we achieve the release of the hostages and the defeat of Hamas. Fulfilling these missions is essential for our future and our values as a society," he noted.

Zamir visited the site where on Wednesday a Hamas commando ambushed Israeli soldiers, an attack in which the troops managed to eliminate most of the terrorists.

He thanked the fighters for their bravery and ordered commanders to continue investigating the incident to extract tactical lessons.

"The blow we have dealt Hamas is severe," said the Chief of Staff. "From being a terrorist army that perpetrated the October 7 massacre, it has transformed into a guerrilla organization. However, we will continue to strike them everywhere and for as long as necessary."

With the start of this phase, Israel seeks to consolidate its control in the heart of the Gaza Strip, pressure Hamas to release the hostages, and bring the war to a conclusion under conditions dictated by Jerusalem.