Israel’s security cabinet has approved an expanded military operation targeting Hamas, which includes plans to “capture” and hold territory in Gaza, according to an Israeli official.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described it as a “forceful operation” aimed at dismantling Hamas and rescuing hostages. He also stated that Gaza’s 2.1 million residents would be relocated “for their protection,” though he did not specify how much territory would be taken, only noting that Israeli troops “will not enter and leave” as before.
Additionally, the cabinet gave initial approval for aid delivery via private companies, potentially ending a two-month blockade that has led to severe food shortages, according to the UN.
Israel Approves Expanded Military Plan for Gaza Amid Mounting Criticism
Israel’s security cabinet has approved a new phase in its military offensive against Hamas, which includes plans to seize and hold parts of Gaza. According to an Israeli official, the strategy—proposed by Chief of Staff Lt Gen Eyal Zamir—aims to dismantle Hamas, recover remaining hostages, and push Gaza’s population south “for their protection.” The plan also includes cutting off Hamas’s access to humanitarian aid and launching intensified strikes across the territory.
The offensive is set to expand after U.S. President Trump’s upcoming visit to the region, offering what Israeli officials call a “window of opportunity” for Hamas to accept a ceasefire and hostage deal.
Meanwhile, humanitarian groups, including the UN, have condemned the proposal, warning it breaches fundamental humanitarian principles. They have refused to cooperate with a plan that involves private aid delivery and mass displacement.
On the ground, tens of thousands of Israeli reservists are being mobilized. Lt Gen Zamir stated this move is to intensify operations and target Hamas infrastructure both above and below ground.
Far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich stated that Israel was “finally going to occupy the Gaza Strip,” drawing further concern. While Israel withdrew from Gaza in 2005, the UN still considers it occupied due to Israel’s control over its borders, airspace, and coastline.
However, opposition is growing. Critics argue that military action has failed to secure the release of the remaining 59 hostages, with only 24 believed to be alive. The Hostages and Missing Families Forum accused the government of prioritizing territorial control over saving lives—against the will of the Israeli majority.
The EU has also expressed concern, warning that an expanded offensive could worsen the humanitarian crisis.
In Gaza, many residents—especially in the north—are refusing to be displaced again. “We lived through unbearable conditions in what Israel called a ‘safe zone,’” said 76-year-old Ahmed Shehata. “This time, we will not leave—even if the tents collapse over our heads.”
Another resident, Osama Tawfiq, added: “Israeli threats won’t scare us. We are staying in Gaza.”
Israel to Resume Aid Deliveries Under Military Control Amid Warnings from UN
An Israeli official stated that the country’s security cabinet has approved, by a large majority, a plan to potentially resume humanitarian aid distribution in Gaza—under strict military control. The goal, they said, is to prevent Hamas from accessing supplies and to dismantle its governing capabilities.
Aid deliveries would begin once Israel’s expanded military operation is underway, with a “sterile area” set up in southern Rafah. Palestinians would be permitted entry into this zone after inspections.
However, the UN’s Humanitarian Country Team (HCT)—which includes multiple aid agencies—has raised serious concerns. In a joint statement, they said Israeli authorities are attempting to dismantle the existing aid system and force agencies to operate under military-controlled hubs, which could be opened only after government approval.
The HCT condemned the move, saying it would cut off large areas of Gaza and leave the most vulnerable people without help. They warned that the strategy undermines core humanitarian principles and appears aimed at using essential supplies as a form of military leverage.
“It risks lives by forcing civilians into militarized zones to collect aid,” the statement said, “and further entrenches displacement.”
Israel had blocked all humanitarian supplies into Gaza since March 2, intensifying the humanitarian crisis. The UN now warns of looming famine, as warehouses are empty, bakeries have closed, and community kitchens have just days of supplies left. The blockade has also halted delivery of vital medicines, vaccines, and equipment—crippling an already overwhelmed healthcare system.
While international law requires Israel to ensure the welfare of Gaza’s civilian population, the Israeli government insists it is in compliance and claims there is no shortage of aid.
The conflict began after Hamas launched a deadly cross-border attack on October 7, 2023, killing around 1,200 people and taking 251 hostages. Since then, over 52,500 people have been killed in Gaza, including more than 2,400 since Israel resumed its offensive, according to Gaza’s Hamas-run health ministry.
