Israel Expands Gaza Operation: Netanyahu Confirms Displacement and Long-Term Military Presence

 

Israel Approves Expanded Gaza Operation; Population Displacement and Military Goals Outlined

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that Gaza's population will be displaced southward following his security cabinet's approval of an expanded military operation in the enclave, described by a minister as a plan to “conquer” the territory.

The decision, made Sunday, came shortly after Israel mobilized tens of thousands of reservists to bolster its military presence. In a video address Monday, Netanyahu emphasized the operation's permanence: “This won’t be a temporary raid. We’re calling up reserves to hold territory — we’re not going in and pulling out.”

Netanyahu stated the aim is both military and humanitarian: to protect civilians through displacement while pursuing a broader offensive named “Gideon’s Chariots,” which seeks to dismantle Hamas and secure the release of hostages.

A senior Israeli official said the plan is set to begin after U.S. President Donald Trump's upcoming Middle East visit, potentially offering time for a hostage deal. If no agreement is reached, the offensive will proceed “with full force,” and Israel will maintain control over captured areas.

The official also noted that humanitarian aid might resume post-displacement, but Israel will not relinquish its planned security buffer around Gaza, aimed at protecting Israeli communities and preventing arms smuggling.

While Netanyahu framed the top priority as dismantling Hamas, military spokesperson Brig. Gen. Effie Defrin said the immediate goal is hostage recovery. This apparent shift sparked criticism from far-right Israeli politicians, including National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, who accused the military of overstepping its role.

Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, also a member of the security cabinet, said Gaza's annexation is possible if the IDF remains in control post-operation. He insisted that even a hostage deal wouldn't reverse territorial gains.

Since Israel renewed its assault in mid-March — ending a two-month ceasefire — over 2,400 Palestinians have been killed, with the Palestinian Ministry of Health reporting over 52,000 deaths since the war began.

The expanded offensive is expected to escalate gradually, allowing time for potential ceasefire talks before Trump’s regional visit in mid-May, which currently excludes a stop in Israel.

Meanwhile, concerns over civilian casualties and humanitarian access are mounting. UN Deputy Spokesman Farhan Haq said Secretary-General António Guterres is “alarmed” by the expansion plans. Aid to Gaza has been blocked for nine weeks, with Israel linking the blockade to pressure on Hamas. However, aid groups and international bodies warn this may amount to collective punishment and risk famine.

A new aid framework — approved by the cabinet but not yet implemented — is being discussed by U.S. and Israeli officials. It would bypass Hamas and be managed by an unnamed private foundation. The U.S. insists safeguards will ensure aid reaches civilians only.

However, both Hamas and several international aid organizations have rejected the framework. Aid groups argue the plan undermines humanitarian principles and could restrict access to Gaza’s most vulnerable.