Israel Launches Heaviest Gaza Strikes Amid Expanded Offensive Plans

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced plans to expand the military offensive in Gaza City, aiming to complete the operation fairly quickly to defeat Hamas and secure the release of hostages. Intense Israeli airstrikes and shelling have devastated Gaza City and southern areas like Khan Younis, causing significant civilian casualties, including the deaths of several Palestinian families and five Al Jazeera journalists in a strike near Al Shifa Hospital. Netanyahu emphasized that the goal is to establish a security buffer near Israel's border without occupying Gaza permanently. The Israel Defense Forces are preparing to call up thousands of reservists for the operation, although the plan faces internal opposition from Israeli security officials and hostage families as well as international criticism demanding restraint and humanitarian considerations. Netanyahu and U.S. President Donald Trump have discussed the offensive, with Trump expressing overall support despite some reported disagreements over tactics. The conflict continues to generate global concern over escalating violence and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.