Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recently announced plans for a significantly intensified military operation in Gaza, aiming to decisively defeat Hamas. However, specifics regarding the extent of territorial control to be established remain vague.
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This announcement follows approval from the Israeli security cabinet for expanding military operations in Gaza, which includes a contentious assertion of “conquest” and intentions for relocating the local population. “Population will be moved for its own protection,” Netanyahu stated in a video posted on X, emphasizing that Israeli soldiers will adopt a more assertive approach, moving into Gaza to execute operations without the intention of immediate withdrawal.
The European Union has expressed concern over these developments, urging Israel to exhibit restraint amid increasing humanitarian crises. “The planned extension of operations will undoubtedly lead to more casualties and suffering for the Palestinian population,” EU spokesman Anouar El Anouni remarked. He urged Israel to “exercise the utmost restraint.”
Simon Harris, Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, described the reports of extended military operations as “alarming.” He highlighted that such actions could exacerbate an already dire humanitarian crisis, causing further loss of life. “I strongly urge the Israeli authorities to exercise restraint,” he emphasized.
Jan Egeland, head of the Norwegian Refugee Council, conveyed similar sentiments, condemning the plan as “fundamentally against humanitarian principles.” “We cannot and will not engage in any initiative that contradicts core humanitarian values,” he stated, reinforcing that international humanitarian organizations will refuse to align with the Israeli military’s approach.
In the wake of these developments, the Israeli military has mobilized tens of thousands of reservists to ramp up their offensive in Gaza. An official noted that the operational strategy would entail “the conquest of the Gaza Strip,” with intentions to relocate the civilian population southward for their protection.
This phased plan, reportedly extending over several months, aims to focus on specific areas within the enclave, potentially allowing for negotiations regarding ceasefire and hostages’ release prior to U.S. President Donald Trump’s impending visit to the region. “There remains a window of opportunity until President Trump concludes his visit, if Hamas understands our resolve,” stated security cabinet minister Zeev Elkin.
Currently, Israel controls approximately one-third of Gaza’s territory, having resumed ground operations following the collapse of a U.S.-backed ceasefire. The blockade imposed has drastically limited humanitarian aid, further intensifying the plight of Gaza’s population of 2.3 million.
Despite calls for action, the Israeli government has yet to articulate a comprehensive vision for Gaza’s future post-conflict. The official stated that the new offensive plan aims to maintain control over seized territories until Hamas is either defeated or agrees to disarm and depart. However, Hamas has firmly dismissed such proposals.
Netanyahu continues to advocate a controversial plan, aligning with U.S. President Trump’s proposed voluntary relocation of Gazans to neighboring countries like Jordan or Egypt.
As the humanitarian crisis deepens, with increasing reports of food scarcity and malnutrition, UNICEF’s Executive Director Peter Power described the situation as “nothing short of barbaric and inhumane.” “There can be no justification for withholding essential resources such as food and water,” he asserted, calling the blockade a potential war crime.
With the escalation of military operations, humanitarian workers are increasingly concerned about the resultant forced displacements contributing to the deteriorating living conditions for the already vulnerable population. “The decision to deploy additional troops will only compound an already critical situation,” Power added.
Reports indicate that Israel’s heightened military campaigns have resulted in rampant devastation in Gaza, with Israeli forces enforcing a strict blockade since early March. The ongoing conflict has resulted in tens of thousands of casualties, drawing widespread international condemnation and calls for humanitarian intervention.
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International – Monitoring.
