Israel’s Security Cabinet has decided to significantly expand the military offensive against Hamas in the Gaza Strip. According to Israeli media reports, the plan includes the “conquest” and control of the area, with the civilian population being relocated to the south for their protection. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu justified the plan, stating that these measures are necessary to achieve the war goals of defeating Hamas and securing the release of hostages. The Security Cabinet members unanimously approved the expansion of the operation, which is set to begin after the visit of US President Donald Trump to the region next week. Efforts to achieve a ceasefire and a hostage agreement with Hamas will continue until then. However, the Chief of the Israeli Defense Forces, Eyal Zamir, warned that the expansion of the offensive could endanger the hostages. Simultaneously, the government approved the import of humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip, which will be distributed by a civilian organization. However, the Minister of Security, Itamar Ben-Gvir, opposed this measure, arguing that Hamas has enough food supplies. The Chief of the General Staff responded that such ideas could pose a risk. The Israeli Attorney General, Gali Baharav-Miara, pointed out that Israel is legally obligated to allow humanitarian aid. The humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip is precarious, with aid organizations describing catastrophic conditions. Israel had previously blocked aid shipments to the area and accused Hamas of profiting from the distribution of aid to fund their fighters and weapons.
Civilian Relocation and Expanded Offensive Approved
