IDF Chief Approves Expanded Gaza Assault Plan Amid Rising Humanitarian Crisis
Israel’s Chief of Staff, Maj. Gen. Eyal Zamir, has signed off on a major operational plan for an expanded ground offensive in the Gaza Strip, including Gaza City. The move follows directives from Israel’s political leadership and is aimed at removing Hamas from power and “demilitarizing” Gaza. The strategy envisions large-scale ground operations in areas believed to hold hostages, with the possible deployment of tens of thousands of troops.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has outlined five core objectives for ending the war: disarming Hamas, securing the release of all hostages, stripping Gaza of weapons, maintaining Israeli security control, and establishing a civilian administration that poses no threat to Israel.
Meanwhile, the humanitarian toll in Gaza continues to worsen. Hospitals report 123 deaths and 437 injuries in the past 24 hours alone—including 21 civilians killed while seeking humanitarian aid. Malnutrition among children is climbing as food and aid remain scarce.
The United Nations and human rights officials have condemned Israel’s plan for full military control, warning it could trigger mass displacement, widespread civilian deaths, and potential atrocity crimes. They have called on Israel to halt its military takeover and ensure unrestricted access for humanitarian relief.
Human rights experts also accuse Israel of systematically dismantling Gaza’s healthcare system—labeling the practice “medicide”—by targeting hospitals, medical staff, and healthcare infrastructure, leaving medical services in a state of collapse.
International condemnation has grown after journalists were killed in an Israeli strike on a media encampment, sparking outrage over attacks on press freedom.
Despite the intensified military campaign, Israel estimates that about 20 hostages remain alive in Hamas custody, while the bodies of 30 killed hostages are still being held. Many families of hostages fear the expanded assault will put their loved ones at greater risk, calling it “a death sentence.”
Since the war escalated in 2023, Gaza’s Hamas-run health ministry reports more than 61,000 Palestinian deaths. The conflict shows no sign of slowing, with fresh airstrikes, civilian casualties, and starvation-related deaths reported today.
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