Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held two press conferences on Sunday evening, one in English for international media and another in Hebrew for local journalists. During the event, prominent television journalist Almog Boker questioned Netanyahu about a recent statement made by Aryeh Deri, leader of an ultra-Orthodox party in the coalition government. Deri, who serves as an observer in the security cabinet, was recorded advising young ultra-Orthodox men to resist contributing to Israel's military efforts.

Netanyahu appeared irritated by the question and claimed he was unaware of Deri's comments. However, this assertion was quickly contradicted as Israeli television aired the video clip of Deri shortly after. This incident is part of a broader trend of declining public confidence in the government since the events of October 7.

Recent polling indicates that 87% of Israelis believe Netanyahu is responsible for the October 7 massacre, with nearly half of respondents, 48%, calling for his resignation. This data was collected before the release of distressing hostage videos that have further deepened national despair.

Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad recently released videos showing two young hostages, who appeared to be in critical condition due to starvation. Medical assessments suggest they are near death. In one harrowing moment, 24-year-old Evyatar David was seen digging in a dark tunnel, reportedly stating he was digging his own grave before collapsing. His father did not recognize him or his voice in the video.

The footage has devastated the Israeli public, raising questions about the ongoing conflict. Despite 22 months of war, Hamas remains operational, and hostages are still held captive, contributing to a humanitarian crisis in Gaza. In response to the national outcry following the release of the videos, Netanyahu announced plans for a renewed offensive in Gaza aimed at occupying the territory, a move that shocked many.

Facing backlash from various sectors of society, Netanyahu later moderated his stance, moving away from a total occupation plan advocated by senior cabinet ministers Bezalel Smotrich and Itamar Ben-Gvir. After a lengthy security cabinet meeting, a decision was made to support a limited and phased occupation that would transition to a new civil administration in Gaza.

Details about which countries might participate in this plan remain unclear. For months, military officials in Israel and the U.S. have urged Netanyahu to develop a strategic plan, but the perception is that he has not done so. Nevertheless, he affirmed on Sunday night that Israel controls 75% of the Gaza Strip, while Hamas fighters continue to pose a significant challenge.