The Israeli government has approved a major ground offensive in Gaza, aimed at destroying Hamas and taking control of part of the territory. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that the operation will be different from previous interventions and that Israeli forces will remain in the occupied areas. The Israeli military (IDF) confirmed that it will avoid entering areas where the hostages are believed to be, so as not to endanger their lives.
"We will launch a massive operation in Gaza. To defeat Hamas and free the hostages. There will be a movement of the population to protect them. This time the army will not enter and exit Gaza as in the past, reserve forces will be mobilized to stay in the occupied territory," Netanyahu said.
Before the offensive began, Israel announced a mass evacuation of civilians from northern and central Gaza to the south, where shelters would be built and humanitarian aid would be distributed.
"The plan to expand the operation in Gaza is broad, but still limited: it clearly excludes areas where there are believed to be hostages. We do not intend to enter those areas. The new phase will involve above all the transition from raids to taking control of parts of the territory (but not the entire Strip), clearing the tunnels, of which only a quarter have been neutralized so far," the officials explained.
US President Donald Trump, who is expected to visit the Gulf states, has voiced support for the aid. "We're going to help them get food. They're hungry," Trump confirmed, pointing the finger at Hamas, which he said "treats them very badly."
Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir made it clear that there will be no return to previous levels of around 650 trucks per day, but only essential goods will be supplied under strict control, and reiterated that the IDF will not participate in the distribution.
Meanwhile, Israeli and US jets have bombed the port of Hodeidah in Yemen in response to a Houthi rebel missile attack that hit Tel Aviv airport. Iran has denied any involvement in the Houthi attacks, calling the accusations "baseless."
In Israel, protests have increased, especially from families of hostages, who are demanding an end to the offensive and the return of their loved ones.
The situation remains very tense, while the military operation is expected to begin after the end of Trump's visit to the region on May 16. (A2 Televizion)
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