google.com, pub-3998556743903564, DIRECT, f08c47fec0942fa0 Israel Expands Gaza Offensive, Announces Land Seizure Plan

Israel Expands Gaza Offensive, Announces Land Seizure Plan

By Steve Okechukwu

Israel has announced an expansion of its military campaign in Gaza, with plans to seize more territory in what Palestinian officials describe as an escalation of its war on the enclave.

Defence Minister Israel Katz said the offensive aims to "clear areas" and capture land to be added to Israel’s "security zones." He confirmed the operation would involve mass evacuations of Palestinians from targeted areas.

In recent days, the Israeli military has issued evacuation orders for parts of northern and southern Gaza, worsening already dire humanitarian conditions.

Israel resumed airstrikes on 18 March, breaking a January ceasefire and prisoner exchange deal with Hamas. Since then, Palestinian health officials report over 1,000 killed and 2,000 injured.

Aid agencies warn of catastrophic shortages after Israel closed Gaza’s crossings in early March, blocking essential supplies.

The death toll since October 2023 now exceeds 50,300, mostly women and children, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry.

The International Criminal Court (ICC) issued arrest warrants in November for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant over alleged war crimes. Israel also faces a genocide case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

The UN has repeatedly called for a ceasefire, warning of famine and mass displacement.

 

 

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