The proposed ceasefire, discussed in Doha, involved releasing half of the hostages held by Hamas in exchange for Palestinian prisoners.
However, Israeli officials now argue that Hamas is not serious about reaching a deal, prompting calls for stronger military action.
Netanyahu’s office has reportedly floated ideas such as seizing parts of Gaza or expanding military operations into areas not yet targeted.
While the political leadership is pushing for a more aggressive stance, Israel’s military is warning of potential risks to the remaining 20 hostages.
Top army officials are concerned that further operations could endanger lives and lead to a prolonged conflict.
Military chief Eyal Zamir has reportedly expressed frustration over what he sees as a lack of strategic direction from the government.
Some far-right Israeli ministers are also calling for even more drastic steps.
They propose imposing military rule over Gaza and re-establishing Jewish settlements dismantled two decades ago.
However, the army has consistently pushed back against such ideas, arguing they could lead to greater instability and long-term conflict in the region.
Benjamin Netanyahu will convene his security cabinet this week to decide on Israel’s next steps in Gaza following the collapse of indirect ceasefire talks with Hamas, with one senior Israeli source suggesting more force could be an option.
Last Saturday, during a visit to the country, US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff had said he was working with the Israeli government on a plan that would effectively end the war in Gaza.
But Israeli officials have also floated ideas including expanding the military offensive in Gaza and annexing parts of the shattered enclave.
The failed ceasefire talks in Doha had aimed to clinch agreements on a US-backed proposal for a 60 – day truce, during which aid would be flown into Gaza and half of the hostages Hamas is holding would be freed in exchange for Palestinian prisoners jailed in Israel.
A source familiar with the matter told on Sunday that the envoy’s visit was seen in Israel as “very significant”.
But later on Sunday, the Israeli official signalled that pursuit of a deal would be pointless, threatening more force: “An understanding is emerging that Hamas is not interested in a deal and therefore the prime minister is pushing to release the hostages while pressing for military defeat.
