#Israel #Gaza #MilitaryOperation
The Israeli Cabinet has approved a plan to expand military operations in Gaza, aiming to establish control in the region, as confirmed by a government official. This decision comes amidst ongoing warnings from the United Nations and various aid agencies about the deepening humanitarian crisis in Gaza, exacerbated by the recent two-month-long complete blockade, raising concerns of a potential famine.
Under this plan approved by the Cabinet, the Israeli military is set to redeploy thousands of reserve soldiers to Gaza. The operation, which began on March 5th, follows the conclusion of a two-month ceasefire that failed to yield results, leading to the current escalation of extensive aerial and ground attacks. The recent assault in northern Gaza on Monday resulted in the loss of at least 19 lives, according to rescue workers.
The detailed plan includes powerful offensives in Gaza, relocating civilians southwards for safety, and taking control of the region, as outlined by officials. The majority of Gaza’s densely populated areas, particularly Gaza City, have been affected since the start of the conflict, potentially displacing nearly everyone at least once.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other ministers unanimously approved the plan with the goal of neutralizing the group governing Gaza and releasing captives. Additionally, the Chief of Staff announced on Sunday that around ‘tens of thousands’ of reserve soldiers are being called up.
According to health authorities in Gaza, the Israeli incursion on March 5th resulted in the deaths of at least 2,436 individuals. Since the beginning of the conflict, a total of 52,535 people have lost their lives. The previous year’s October 7th attack by Israel resulted in the deaths of 1,218 individuals and the detention of 251 people. Currently, 58 individuals remain in Gaza, with 34 confirmed fatalities.
While the Israeli government has stated that the ongoing military actions in Gaza aim to release remaining captives, critics argue that this approach poses further risks to the lives of prisoners. A group representing families of captives has accused the plan of causing a ‘balancing act’ with the lives of captive individuals.
In addition to the military escalation, Prime Minister Netanyahu has proposed transferring Gaza residents to countries such as Jordan or Egypt through voluntary means, although these proposals have been met with rejection from Arab nations and Gaza residents.
Ramesh Khatri, a representative of Kansai Nepal News, commented on the situation, stating, “The new Israeli aid system is being utilized as a political pressure tactic, with Israel being held responsible for the serious humanitarian crisis in Gaza.”
Furthermore, the Israeli Cabinet has indicated that if necessary, they are open to the possibility of distributing aid in Gaza. However, international sources report discussions on alternative ways to resume aid operations in Gaza between the US, Israel, and new international humanitarian organizations.
The United Nations and non-governmental organizations operating in Gaza have accused Israel of halting the current aid system to distribute assistance according to their terms, stating that such actions violate humanitarian principles and pose a threat to life-saving supplies.
UN Secretary-General and Emergency Relief Coordinator have expressed clear disapproval of any participation in such a plan. Hamas has responded by stating, “Israel’s new aid arrangement is being used as a political pressure tactic, and Israel is solely responsible for Gaza’s severe humanitarian crisis.”
Although the Israeli Cabinet claims there is still sufficient food in Gaza, the UN and other aid agencies warn that the severe impact of the blockade could worsen the crisis for over 2.4 million people in Gaza.
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Author: MAYA | HARUTO
Posted at: May 6, 2025 3:01 am