Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defended a new, broader military offensive in Gaza, declaring that Israel “has no choice but to finish the job and complete the defeat of Hamas” despite mounting domestic and international criticism. Speaking to foreign media, Netanyahu revealed that the security Cabinet had ordered the dismantling of Hamas strongholds not only in Gaza City but also in the central camps and Muwasi, areas sheltering over half a million displaced people, according to the UN. These camps were not included in Israel’s initial announcement on August 8, a decision reportedly influenced by criticism within Netanyahu’s coalition that targeting Gaza City alone was insufficient.

Late Sunday, heavy bombardment hit Gaza City, with Al Jazeera reporting the death of its correspondent Anas al-Sharif and three other journalists, along with a driver, in a strike on their tent outside Shifa Hospital. Israel’s military confirmed the strike, alleging al-Sharif “posed as a journalist” and was affiliated with Hamas, a claim he had previously denied. The Committee to Protect Journalists had warned last month that al-Sharif was targeted by an Israeli smear campaign.

Netanyahu, after speaking with US President Donald Trump, thanked him for his “steadfast support.” He rejected starvation claims in Gaza, calling them a “global campaign of lies,” and insisted there was no hunger policy, only shortages. He outlined goals to demilitarize Gaza, maintain Israeli military control, and establish a non-Israeli civilian administration, while also announcing plans to allow more foreign journalists into Gaza, a shift from restricted access.

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At an emergency UN Security Council meeting, the US defended Israel’s security decisions, dismissing genocide allegations, while China and Russia condemned the offensive as “collective punishment” and warned of escalating hostilities. UN official Ramesh Rajasingham described Gaza’s humanitarian conditions as “beyond horrific,” with starvation rampant.

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