Israel's Netanyahu signals ‘intense' stage of Gaza fighting is close to end

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the “intense” phase of the conflict in Gaza is coming to an end. He mentioned the possibility of shifting troops to the northern border with Lebanon for defensive purposes and to bring back evacuated residents. Netanyahu did not provide a specific timeline for the end of combat against Hamas but emphasized that the Israeli military will not stop in the middle of its campaign. He also discussed the need to eliminate Hamas capabilities and establish military control in Gaza. Netanyahu expressed readiness to fight Hezbollah and highlighted the tensions between Israel and Lebanon. US special envoy Amos Hochstein and German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock have intervened to ease tensions. The United States has faced pressure regarding its military support to Israel. Netanyahu claimed that there has been a reduction in weapon shipments from the US.