Gaza [Gaza City], August 6: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has held talks with army chief Eyal Zamir about the next steps in the Gaza war amid reports that the government is set to order the full occupation of the coastal territory.
Netanyahu's office said Zamir presented him with possible options for continuing the war, which has been going on for nearly 22 months.
Details of the plans were not initially disclosed.
The meeting came after several Israeli media outlets on Monday reported unanimously that Netanyahu was pushing for the complete capture of the Gaza Strip despite objections from the military leadership.
However, the Israeli Security Cabinet would first have to approve such a plan.
Broadcaster N12 has reported that the body is due to meet on Thursday for consultations.
Netanyahu has not yet commented publicly on the plans.
Following the consultation with Zamir, the Kan channel reported that Netanyahu was still leaning towards fully occupying the coastal strip.
The government is aware that such an approach would probably jeopardize the hostages in the Gaza Strip, according to the report.
According to Israeli estimates, there are currently 50 hostages still held by Hamas, 20 of whom are believed to be alive.
The army leadership is reportedly very concerned about extending the fighting to occupy the Gaza Strip completely, due to the risks for the remaining hostages and Israeli soldiers.
However, the statement distributed by Netanyahu's office stated: "The army is ready to implement all decisions of the Security Cabinet."
Source: Qatar Tribune
