Israel’s security cabinet has approved a plan to expand its military offensive against Hamas, which includes the “capture” of Gaza and the holding of its territory, according to an Israeli official.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the cabinet had decided on a “forceful operation” to destroy Hamas and rescue its remaining hostages, and that Gaza’s 2.1 million population “will be moved, to protect it”.
He did not say how much territory would be seized by troops, but he stressed that “they will not enter and come out”.
An Israeli official who briefed the media on Monday morning said ministers voted unanimously to approve a plan proposed by the Israeli military’s Chief of Staff Lt Gen Eyal Zamir, to “defeat Hamas in Gaza and return the hostages”.
“The plan will include, among other things, the capture of the Strip and holding the territories, moving the Gazan population south for its defence, denying Hamas the ability to distribute humanitarian supplies, and powerful attacks against Hamas,” the official said.
A senior Israeli security official said the plan would not be implemented until after US President Donald Trump visits the region between 13 and 16 May, providing what he called “a window of opportunity” to Hamas to agree a new ceasefire and hostage release deal.
The UN and other aid agencies have said the proposal would be a breach of basic humanitarian principles and that they will not co-operate.
A Hamas official said the group rejected Israel’s “pressure and blackmail”.
