Israel ramps up offensive against Hamas, plans for aid delivery
The Israeli government has unanimously approved a plan to expand its offensive against Hamas in the Gaza Strip while also planning to resume the delivery of humanitarian aid. These decisions are conditional and will not be implemented immediately.
What do you need to know?
- Decision on the offensive: The Israeli security cabinet has agreed to expand military operations against Hamas in the Gaza Strip. This plan is to be implemented after U.S. President Donald Trump's visit to the Middle East.
- Humanitarian aid: The resumption of aid deliveries to the Gaza Strip will occur when necessary. The new system aims to prevent Hamas from capturing the aid.
- Context of the conflict: Israel resumed military actions on March 18 after nearly a two-month truce, worsening the humanitarian crisis in the region.
What are Israel's plans regarding Hamas?
The Israeli government has decided to intensify its offensive against Hamas in the Gaza Strip. "The Israel Defense Forces said Saturday night that it was sending out tens of thousands of call-up orders to reservists," says the "Times of Israel." This plan is set to be executed after U.S. President Donald Trump's anticipated visit next week. Until then, Israel will attempt to negotiate a truce.
What changes does the new aid system introduce?
The new system for delivering humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip intends to reduce the chances of it falling into Hamas's hands. "Israel says it must take control of aid distribution, arguing without providing evidence that Hamas and other terrorists siphon off supplies," the "Times of Israel" notes. The previous wholesale distribution stage, which often led to goods being looted by Hamas, will be circumvented.
What are the consequences of resuming the war?
Israel resumed military actions on March 18, further aggravating the humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip. UN reports that according to aid organizations, this has exacerbated the humanitarian crisis in the war-torn territory, including hunger. Israeli authorities stress that the aid blockade was aimed at Hamas, which was looting transports to fund its terrorist activities.
