Netanyahu open to ‘broader operation’ in Gaza if all other options ‘exhausted’

Israel’s prime minister has said he is prepared to take further military action in the Gaza Strip, but only as a last resort.

Benjamin Netanyahu made his comments as Egyptian mediators were trying to broker an expanded ceasefire between Israel and Gaza’s Hamas terror rulers following a new round of fighting.

Mr Netanyahu visited troops sent to the Gaza border this week after a two-day outbreak of fighting.

“If we need a broader operation, we will enter it strong and confident, and after we have exhausted all other options,” he said.

Israel carried out retaliatory airstrikes against Hamas after a rocket fired from Gaza destroyed a house north of Tel Aviv and wounded seven Israelis.

Palestinian terrorists responded with rocket barrages.