Jerusalem / Gaza: The Israel security firm unanimously approved a plan aimed at extending military operations in the Gaza Strip, preparing the way for a potentially wider assault on the enclave once the President Donald Trump has completed his next regional visit.
The decision, confirmed by an Israeli official late Sunday Sunday, underlines the determination of Israel to maintain military pressure on Hamas even though the cease-fire and hostage negotiations remain underway. A final diplomatic breakthrough should influence the scheduled expansion calendar, officials said.
In a parallel decision, the cabinet has also approved a revised humanitarian aid framework for Gaza. The plan, supported by all ministers, with the exception of the far -right minister of national security, Itamar Ben Gvir, aims to increase the aid flow while tightening control of its distribution – a nod to the implementation of international criticisms on the humanitarian assessment of the conflict.
Under the new mechanism, Israeli Defense Forces (FDI) will provide security for the perimeter, while private entrepreneurs and international agencies oversee the delivery of aid, in order to prevent the alleged diversion of Hamas. “This reflects the double approach of Israel – apply military pressure while responding to global concerns concerning the humanitarian crisis,” said a senior official.
The decision comes in the midst of catastrophic conditions in Gaza. More than 50,000 Palestinians have been killed since the start of hostilities, according to health authorities in the enclave, with the United Nations and help organizations warning imminent famine and systemic collapse.
The latest Israeli air campaign on March 18, launched despite a fragile cease-fire agreed in January, killed 1,574 people and injured more than 4,000 people, more aggravating devastation.
Israel’s actions have been the subject of growing legal examination. Last November, the International Criminal Court (ICC) published arrest mandates against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant for alleged war crimes in Gaza. The country also faces a case of genocide at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), which continues to gray its military strategy.
While Israeli officials insist that military expansion aims to dismantle Hamas infrastructure, international pressure continues to go up for diplomatic resolution and immediate relief for civilians caught in cross -fires.
The next stages – militarily and diplomatically – should take place after Trump’s visit next week, which should recalibrate both regional dynamics and nearest negotiations.
