Call from defence minister comes as Supreme Court freezes Benjamin Netanyahu’s sacking of the domestic intelligence chief
Israel's defense minister ordered the military to seize more ground in Gaza if Hamas does not release all remaining hostages, dead or alive, intensifying air, sea, and land strikes. Approximately 59 hostages remain in Gaza, though many are presumed dead. The conflict, triggered by Hamas's October 7th attack, has resulted in 49,000 Palestinian deaths and displacement of 90% of Gaza's population. Ceasefire talks stalled, and renewed Israeli military action has led to further casualties. Additionally, Israel's Supreme Court temporarily froze the dismissal of the head of the domestic intelligence service, sparking protests.