Israel Approves Expanded Gaza Offensive Amid Humanitarian Concerns

Tone & Political Bias: Center 

Why: The report presents direct facts from official sources and avoids emotionally charged language or partisan framing.

Cabinet Endorses Comprehensive Military Strategy

On May 5, 2025, Israel's security cabinet approved a plan to intensify military operations in Gaza. The aim is to seize and maintain control over the entire territory currently held by Hamas. This decision follows the collapse of a U.S.-brokered ceasefire in March and is part of a broader strategy to dismantle Hamas's infrastructure.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized that the new offensive would not be a limited action. Instead, it would involve sustained and long-term military presence. The operation is set to begin with focused actions in select areas and will gradually expand over several months.

Mobilization of Reservists and Operational Plans

To support the expanded offensive, the Israeli military has issued call-up notices to tens of thousands of reservists. These personnel are expected to join operations in Gaza and take over duties from active units being rotated out or reassigned.

The plan includes the relocation of Gaza’s civilian population further south. The military claims this is to minimize casualties and ensure Hamas cannot exploit humanitarian aid. However, the overall blockade on aid remains in place, causing growing concern among international aid organizations.

Humanitarian Organizations Reject Aid Distribution Plan

Israel has proposed a system in which its military would manage humanitarian aid distribution through controlled hubs. Several humanitarian agencies, including the United Nations and the Norwegian Refugee Council, have publicly rejected the plan. They argue it violates the core principles of humanitarian neutrality and independence.

Jan Egeland, Secretary-General of the Norwegian Refugee Council, stated that the organization would not participate in a system that makes aid workers part of a military strategy.

Potential for Ceasefire Amid Diplomatic Efforts

Despite the military escalation, Israeli officials say a diplomatic solution is still possible. This comes in anticipation of U.S. President Donald Trump's expected visit to the region. Israeli Security Minister Zeev Elkin noted that a ceasefire deal could still be reached if Hamas agrees to disarm and release the remaining hostages.

Hamas, however, insists that any release of hostages must be tied to a permanent ceasefire and complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.

Escalation of Regional Tensions

Israel’s expanded operations have led to increased regional tensions. Yemen’s Houthi rebels declared they would target Israeli airports, including Ben Gurion Airport, in retaliation. A missile recently landed near the airport, signaling a significant escalation.

In response, Prime Minister Netanyahu pledged to retaliate against both the Houthis and their Iranian backers. Iran’s Defense Minister, Aziz Nasirzadeh, warned that any Israeli or U.S. attack would prompt a strong response from Tehran.

The situation in Gaza continues to develop rapidly. While Israel moves forward with its military plans, international pressure and humanitarian warnings grow. A possible diplomatic opening remains, but the conditions for peace are still unclear.