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In a significant escalation, the Israeli army has launched a ground military operation in the Gaza Strip after the recent collapse of the ceasefire with Hamas. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) aim to capture large areas of Gaza, a move that could further intensify regional tensions.
Defense Minister Announces Plan to Seize Gaza Territories
On Wednesday, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz confirmed in a written statement that the military campaign has been expanded. He stated that the operation is focused on dismantling terrorist networks and clearing strategic areas to incorporate them into Israel's security zones.
“We are expanding our military operations in Gaza to crush terrorists, dismantle terror infrastructure, and secure territory as part of Israel’s national security framework,” Katz declared.
Security Objectives and Territory Seizure
While Katz did not specify which areas are to be captured, he highlighted that the newly targeted zones would be added to Israel’s long-standing security perimeter, particularly those along northern and eastern Gaza, adjacent to the Israeli border. These areas have historically served as buffer zones to protect Israeli civilians.
The Israeli military’s armored divisions, including tanks, are reported to be moving through multiple entry points, and the government has ordered the evacuation of civilians from conflict zones within Gaza.
Targeting Hamas and Hostage Crisis
The operation’s goal is to eliminate Hamas from Gaza. Katz urged Palestinian civilians to distance themselves from Hamas and demand the release of hostages still held by the group.
According to Israeli intelligence, 59 hostages remain in Hamas custody, with an estimated 24 still alive. Some hostages have been freed through prior ceasefire deals, but the unresolved hostage crisis continues to be a central trigger for renewed military actions.
“The only way to end the war is to remove Hamas from Gaza and return the hostages,” Katz emphasized.
