Defence Minister Declares Seized Areas Will Be Integrated into Israel’s Security Zones
Israel has intensified its military operations in Gaza, with Defence Minister Israel Katz announcing plans to seize significant portions of the territory. He urged Palestinians to expel Hamas and secure the release of all remaining hostages.
Katz stated that the military’s goal is to eliminate terrorist threats and incorporate captured land into Israel’s security zones. However, he did not specify how much additional territory Israel intends to control. The country’s security perimeter currently extends along Gaza’s northern and eastern borders.
The announcement comes shortly after Israel issued mass evacuation orders affecting large parts of Rafah, directing civilians to seek refuge in makeshift camps along the coast. Reports indicate that Israel’s 36th Division has now been deployed to Gaza’s southern region, initiating further ground operations.
Since mid-March, Israel has escalated airstrikes and ground offensives after a ceasefire with Hamas collapsed. Overnight bombings in Khan Younis and Nuseirat refugee camp resulted in at least 21 deaths. The ongoing conflict has devastated essential infrastructure, including hospitals and schools.
The war began following Hamas-led attacks on 7 October 2023, which left approximately 1,200 people dead and 251 taken hostage. Currently, 59 hostages remain in captivity, with 24 believed to be alive. The Hostage Families Forum, advocating for the captives’ release, expressed alarm over the military escalation, stressing that negotiations must remain a priority.
International organisations, including the UK-based Plan International, have condemned Israel’s intensified offensive. Kathleen Spencer Chapman, a spokesperson for the charity, criticised the blockade restricting medical aid, calling the humanitarian situation in Gaza catastrophic. She urged world leaders to push for an immediate ceasefire and ensure unrestricted humanitarian assistance.
