Gaza (TDI): Israel’s security cabinet has unanimously approved a plan to expand military operations in the Gaza Strip, an Israeli official said, though the move will only be implemented after US President Donald Trump visits the region next week.
The decision comes amid ongoing talks for a ceasefire and hostage exchange deal with Hamas, which Israel hopes to finalize before escalating its military efforts in the enclave.
Separately, the cabinet also greenlit a renewed plan for delivering humanitarian assistance into Gaza. National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir was the only minister to vote against the assistance plan.
The Israel Defense Forces will not directly distribute the assistance but will secure the perimeter as private contractors and global agencies handle the logistics.
The developments reflect Israel’s dual-track approach — preparing for a massive military push in Gaza while seeking to address global concerns over the humanitarian situation.
The timeline for either action remains contingent on the results of ceasefire efforts and Trump’s upcoming regional trip, officials said.
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The ongoing conflict has resulted in considerable casualties, with more than fifty thousand Palestinians killed and widespread devastation in the enclave.
Humanitarian organizations have warned that the Israeli blockade risks leading to a catastrophe, and assistance groups have urged increased access to the besieged enclave.
Moreover, the Israeli army started a surprise aerial campaign on the Gaza Strip on March 18, killing 1,574 people and wounding 4,115 others despite a ceasefire and prisoner exchange deal that took hold in January.
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In November 2024, the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant for war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza.
Israel also faces a genocide case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) for its war on the enclave.
Farkhund Yousafzai is an Associate Editor at The Diplomatic Insight.
