Israel is set to expand its military operations in Gaza, with plans to seize large areas of the territory. Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz announced this decision, stating that the goal is to eliminate terrorist threats and destroy Hamas infrastructure. He emphasized that these areas would be integrated into Israeli security zones.
Katz called for the evacuation of Palestinian residents, urging them to help remove Hamas and secure the release of Israeli hostages. He claimed that this was the only way to bring an end to the ongoing conflict. Reports indicate that the Israeli military has already initiated ground operations in Rafah.
This announcement follows Katz’s warning last week that the military would soon act with full force in more parts of Gaza. Israel resumed its offensive on March 18, citing Hamas’s refusal to accept a US proposal for a ceasefire and the release of 59 hostages.
Hamas has countered these claims, accusing Israel of violating previous agreements made in January. The humanitarian situation in Gaza has worsened significantly, with Israel halting aid deliveries since March 2. This has led to the longest aid blockade since the conflict reignited.
The United Nations recently announced a reduction in its operations in Gaza after a tragic incident where eight Palestinian medics and a UN staff member were killed by Israeli forces. The Israeli military’s campaign against Hamas began after a deadly cross-border attack on October 7, 2023, which resulted in the deaths of around 1,200 people and the abduction of 251 hostages.
According to the Hamas-run health ministry, more than 50,000 people have died in Gaza since the conflict escalated. The situation remains dire as both sides continue to engage in violent confrontations, with little sign of a resolution in sight.