Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced plans to move the population of Gaza as part of an expanded military campaign dubbed “Operation Gideon’s Chariots.” Approved unanimously by Israel’s security cabinet, the operation aims to decisively defeat Hamas and secure the release of hostages.
Netanyahu emphasized that this would not be a temporary incursion but a sustained occupation of captured areas. He noted that population movement was intended “to protect them,” suggesting large-scale displacement within Gaza, likely toward the southern part of the enclave.
Hostage Talks Delay Offensive, Far-Right Pushes for Gaza Conquest and Annexation
A senior Israeli official stated that the operation would begin in full force if no hostage deal is reached after U.S. President Donald Trump’s upcoming visit to the Middle East. The delay is designed to create diplomatic space for potential negotiations. The military plans to maintain control of all captured territory, and Israeli officials have stated that a buffer zone will remain in place permanently to protect Israeli communities and prevent arms smuggling.
Netanyahu Plans Gaza Population Shift as Israel Prepares Prolonged Offensive Amid Mounting Humanitarian CrisisFinance Minister Bezalel Smotrich expressed a more extreme view, advocating for the complete conquest and possible annexation of Gaza. Smotrich, a key political ally of Netanyahu, stated that Israel should not withdraw from any captured territories, even in exchange for hostages. His comments underline the influence of far-right voices within Israel’s security cabinet and their ambition for long-term Israeli control over Gaza.
Mounting Deaths and Aid Blockade Deepen Gaza Crisis as New Delivery Plan Faces Rejection
The humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate, with over 2,400 Palestinians killed since mid-March and more than 52,000 since the start of the war, according to Palestinian health authorities. Israel’s blockade of humanitarian aid has lasted nine weeks, with some Israeli ministers opposing any resumption of aid. International agencies and legal experts have warned that the blockade risks creating famine and may constitute the use of starvation as a weapon of war—a potential war crime under international law.
Discussions between U.S. and Israeli officials are underway to establish a new aid mechanism that bypasses Hamas and Islamic Jihad. The plan would rely on a private foundation to coordinate with the UN and NGOs. However, aid organizations have rejected the framework, claiming it violates core humanitarian principles and centralizes control over vital supplies. They insist that any system must adhere to global standards of neutrality, independence, and humanity to ensure aid reaches the most vulnerable Palestinians in Gaza.