The Israeli government announced on Wednesday a major expansion of military operations in Gaza, declaring plans to seize large areas of the enclave and incorporate them into security zones. This move will be accompanied by mass evacuations of civilians, as protests against Hamas leadership reportedly emerge within Gaza.
According to Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz, the evacuations will primarily affect areas where fighting is ongoing. He urged the people of Gaza to take action against Hamas and work towards the release of Israeli hostages as the only viable path to ending the conflict.
The Israeli military has already issued evacuation warnings to residents around the southern city of Rafah and the city of Khan Yunis, directing them to relocate to the Al-Mawasi area, which has been designated a humanitarian zone. The 36th Division of the Israeli army, deployed to the Southern Command last month, will be actively involved in the new phase of operations.
While Katz did not specify the exact scope of the land to be seized, he indicated that Israeli forces have established a significant buffer zone within Gaza. This expanded area includes a large security corridor through the enclave, connecting to previously established zones along the borders.
The move follows calls from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for Hamas to disarm, emphasizing that continued military pressure is essential to secure the return of the remaining 59 hostages. Katz reiterated that eliminating Hamas and returning the kidnapped individuals are the only ways to bring the war to a close.
Additionally, Israeli leaders have expressed intentions to facilitate voluntary departures of Palestinians from Gaza, following suggestions from former U.S. President Donald Trump to permanently evacuate the enclave and redevelop it as a coastal resort under American control.
Stay tuned for updates as the situation continues to evolve.
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