Jerusalem: Benjamin Netanyahu is set to convene his security cabinet this week to determine Israel's next steps in Gaza following the breakdown of indirect ceasefire negotiations with Hamas.

According to a senior Israeli source, the possibility of escalating military action has been considered.

Last Saturday, US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff stated that he was working closely with the Israeli government on a plan aimed at ending the conflict in Gaza during his visit to the region.

However, ideas for expanding the military campaign in Gaza and annexing parts of the enclave have also been floated by Israeli officials.

The failed ceasefire talks in Doha had sought to establish a 60-day truce, facilitated by the US, with aid being provided to Gaza and the release of Palestinian prisoners in exchange for hostages held by Hamas.

After Netanyahu's meeting with Witkoff last Thursday, it was suggested that an understanding was emerging between Washington and Israel regarding the need to shift from a temporary ceasefire towards a comprehensive agreement that would involve the release of all hostages, disarmament of Hamas, and demilitarization of Gaza.

The envoy's visit was seen as significant in Israel, but later on Sunday, an Israeli official indicated that pursuing a deal with Hamas may be pointless, emphasizing the need to secure military victory while releasing hostages.

However, there is debate within the Israeli leadership regarding what constitutes a 'military defeat,' with some officials suggesting annexation of parts of Gaza and others advocating for the imposition of military rule before annexation.

The Israeli military has reportedly been tasked with presenting alternative strategies that include extending operations into areas of Gaza not yet targeted.

Concerns have been raised by military leaders about the potential consequences on the remaining hostages should the campaign intensify.

Qatar and Egypt, alongside France and Saudi Arabia, have endorsed a declaration outlining steps towards a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, calling for Hamas to relinquish its arms to the Palestinian Authority.

Hamas has refused to disarm but is open to handing over governance in Gaza to a non-partisan body, according to three Hamas officials.

Israel's Foreign Minister Gideon Saar stated that while they seek the return of all hostages and an end to the conflict through diplomatic means if possible, determining the conditions for ending the war remains a significant challenge.