Israel approves plan to expand military operations in Gaza

Israel's security cabinet has unanimously approved an expanded military plan to seize and hold the entire Gaza Strip, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict with Hamas. The plan, presented by army chief Eyal Zamir, includes the mobilization of tens of thousands of reservists, intensified operations to defeat Hamas, and efforts to secure the release of remaining Israeli hostages. As part of the strategy, Israel intends to push many Palestinians further south within Gaza, worsening an already severe humanitarian crisis exacerbated by prolonged blockades of food, fuel, and medical supplies. The approved plan also reportedly involves blocking Hamas from distributing humanitarian aid and may include the controversial proposal of encouraging Palestinian 'voluntary emigration,' which has drawn international criticism. The offensive comes amid mounting Palestinian casualties, continued hostage situations, and ongoing scrutiny from international courts over alleged war crimes. Efforts continue to reach a ceasefire and facilitate humanitarian aid, but the escalation signals a potentially prolonged Israeli presence in Gaza.