Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz has announced an expansion of military operations in Gaza, stating that Israel will seize “large areas” of the territory as part of its ongoing offensive.
In a statement on Wednesday, Katz emphasized that the expanded operation aims to “destroy and clear the area of terrorists and terrorist infrastructure.” He added that the seized territories would be “incorporated into Israeli security zones.”
Large-Scale Evacuations and Hostage Crisis
Katz stated that the military operation would necessitate a significant evacuation of Palestinian civilians. He urged the local population to eliminate Hamas and secure the release of Israeli hostages, calling it “the only way to end the war.”
Reports indicate that Israeli ground forces have already begun operations in Rafah overnight, marking an escalation in the conflict.
Escalation Follows Ceasefire Breakdown
This announcement comes after Katz’s warning last week that the military would soon operate with “full force” in additional parts of Gaza. Israel launched its renewed offensive on March 18, accusing Hamas of rejecting a U.S.-brokered ceasefire proposal that included the release of 59 hostages held in Gaza. Hamas, in turn, claimed Israel had violated the terms of a previous agreement reached in January.
Worsening Humanitarian Crisis
The humanitarian situation in Gaza has sharply deteriorated in recent weeks. Since March 2, Israel has blocked the entry of humanitarian aid, marking the longest such restriction since the war began.
Last month, the United Nations announced a reduction in its Gaza operations following the deaths of eight Palestinian medics, six Civil Defence first responders, and a UN staff member, who were reportedly killed by Israeli forces in southern Gaza.
Rising Casualties Amid Prolonged Conflict
Israel launched its military campaign against Hamas following an unprecedented cross-border attack on October 7, 2023, in which approximately 1,200 people were killed and 251 taken hostage. In response, Israel’s military has conducted extensive airstrikes and ground operations in Gaza.
According to the Hamas-run health ministry, the death toll in Gaza has surpassed 50,399 since the conflict began.