Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced the approval of a plan to relocate the population of Gaza to the south following an expanded military operation in the enclave. The move, described as a plan to "conquer" the territory, was backed by the security cabinet.
The decision came after the military announced the mobilization of tens of thousands of reservists to strengthen operations in the besieged Palestinian territory.
Prime Minister Netanyahu emphasized the intention to hold territory and not engage in temporary raids. The plan includes moving the population to ensure their protection.
The operation, named "Gideon's Chariots," aims to subdue Hamas and secure the release of hostages according to a senior Israeli security official. The plan will be implemented after US President Donald Trump's visit to the Middle East.
If no hostage deal is reached, Operation Gideon's Chariots will begin with full force, and the population of Gaza will be relocated to the south. The military will maintain control over captured territories.
Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich expressed the intent to conquer Gaza, hinting at the possibility of annexation. The military operations in the enclave will not withdraw, even if a new hostage deal is agreed upon.
More than 2,400 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza since the conflict escalated in mid-March, with the blockade of humanitarian aid entering its ninth week. Discussions are ongoing for the resumption of aid deliveries under a new framework.
US and Israeli officials are exploring alternative mechanisms to deliver aid to Gaza while bypassing Hamas. International aid organizations have raised concerns about the plan, emphasizing the importance of adhering to humanitarian principles.