Is Israel Expanding Its Military Operations to Occupy Gaza?
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Synopsis
Israel's security cabinet has approved a significant escalation in military operations in Gaza, including plans for occupation and renewed control over captured areas. As tensions rise, humanitarian concerns are mounting amid a devastating blockade. What are the implications of this shift in strategy?
Key Takeaways
- Israel's security cabinet has approved a plan to escalate military operations in Gaza.
- The strategy includes the occupation of Gaza and continued control over captured areas.
- Humanitarian aid frameworks are being discussed amid a complete blockade.
- The situation in Gaza has reached a catastrophic humanitarian crisis.
- Over 52,000 Palestinians have been reported killed since October 2023.
Jerusalem, May 5 (NationPress) Israel's security cabinet has given the green light to a strategy aimed at intensifying military actions in Gaza, which includes occupying the Gaza Strip and maintaining control over areas that have been captured, according to a senior Israeli official on Monday.
The ministers endorsed the operational plan unanimously, as revealed by the anonymous official. This decision came shortly after military chief Eyal Zamir disclosed plans to issue tens of thousands of call-up orders for reservists this week to escalate the offensive.
The cabinet has also set up a framework for the potential future entry of humanitarian aid into the ravaged enclave, which has been under a complete blockade since March 2 following the breakdown of a ceasefire agreement. However, the timeline for resuming aid deliveries remains uncertain.
Israel has justified the blockade, stating it is meant to prevent Hamas from taking control of supplies and to pressure the group into accepting terms favorable to Israel, as reported by Xinhua news agency. Nevertheless, the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East warned on Sunday that the blockade has led to a humanitarian crisis in Gaza at catastrophic levels, describing the situation as “beyond imagination.”
During a meeting, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu indicated that the new strategy represents a shift in approach, “transitioning from tactical raids to the occupation and sustained control of territory,” according to a statement from his office.
Netanyahu also reiterated his commitment to promoting a plan for the “voluntary departure” of Gazans and mentioned ongoing discussions with several countries regarding the acceptance of refugees.
The strategy will encompass “occupying Gaza and holding the territories, relocating the Gaza population southward for their protection, denying Hamas the means to distribute humanitarian aid, and executing significant strikes on Hamas -- all measures aimed at its defeat,” stated the senior official.
Israel ended a two-month ceasefire with Hamas in March and resumed its air and ground operations. According to health authorities in Gaza, over 52,000 Palestinians have lost their lives since the onset of the Israeli offensive in October 2023.
Point of View
It is crucial to maintain an unbiased perspective. The situation in Gaza is dire, with thousands affected by the military operations. We stand with the nation in seeking solutions that prioritize peace and humanitarian needs, while recognizing the challenges faced by all parties involved.
NationPress
09/05/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current situation in Gaza?
Israel's recent approval of military operations indicates an escalation in the situation, with significant humanitarian concerns arising from the blockade.
How many people have been affected by the conflict?
According to Gaza health authorities, over 52,000 Palestinians have been killed since the Israeli offensive began in October 2023.
What is Israel's justification for the blockade?
Israel claims the blockade is necessary to prevent Hamas from controlling supplies and to exert pressure for a favorable agreement.
Are there plans for humanitarian aid to Gaza?
A framework for the possible future entry of humanitarian aid has been approved, but the timeline for delivery remains unclear.
What is the international response to the blockade?
The United Nations has warned that the blockade has created a humanitarian crisis of catastrophic proportions in Gaza.
