Netanyahu threatens a major military operation if mediation with Hamas fails.

The Israeli Broadcasting Authority reported Sunday evening that Israel sent a sharp message to the mediators demanding that Hamas return to the negotiating table, threatening to launch a military operation to occupy Gaza City if the refusal continues.

The sources confirmed that the Israeli message included a clear warning: "Either Hamas returns to the talks, or the first phase of the occupation of Gaza will soon begin," noting that these threats have not yet persuaded the movement to return to negotiations.

According to sources, the option of reaching a partial deal remains on the table. Meanwhile, Hamas's leadership is under intense pressure from Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey to push it toward formulating preliminary understandings following Israeli threats. The sources explained that the movement's leadership has extended its stay in Cairo, while Mohammed Darwish, head of Hamas's Shura Council, continues consultations in Turkey on ways to reach an agreement. A decisive decision is not expected before his return to Doha.

In the same context, Channel 12 revealed that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is "determined" to control Gaza and is likely to approve operational plans this week, amid expectations of a cabinet meeting later this week. The channel indicated that any flexibility on the part of Hamas could open the door to a gradual deal that would be presented to the cabinet for a vote, with the likelihood of it securing a majority.

However, Secretary of State for Strategic Affairs Ron Dermer opposes this course of action and is holding talks with the US administration to push for a comprehensive declaration ending the war and releasing all hostages, as part of an agreement that could be announced within a month, perhaps as early as next September, obviating the need for an expanded military operation.

Meanwhile, internal pressure on the Israeli government continued, with hundreds of thousands of demonstrators taking to the streets in various cities on Sunday to demand an end to the war and an agreement to return the hostages held in Gaza.