In a decisive move, Israel's security cabinet has greenlit an extensive military offensive against Hamas, aiming to capture and hold Gaza amid escalating tensions in the region.

With tens of thousands of reservists called up, the Israeli military is intensifying efforts to rescue hostages and eliminate Hamas. Reports suggest that significant actions will be timed to follow U.S. President Donald Trump's upcoming visit to the area next week.

Humanitarian Aid Blockade Under Review

In a shift, the cabinet is also considering resuming humanitarian aid deliveries through private companies, a much-needed action to alleviate severe food shortages plaguing the region. This would end a two-month blockade criticized globally, including by the UN.

The warning signs were clear as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's cabinet convened on Sunday evening to strategize the next steps post-ceasefire, which had been observed until March 18.

Ground Operations Set to Expand Gradually

Israeli media report that ministers unanimously approved a stepwise expansion of ground operations over several months. The initial phase aims to seize additional territories in Gaza and expand a 'buffer zone' along the borders with Israel and Egypt. This measure is expected to bolster Israel's negotiating power concerning a potential ceasefire and hostage release.

Notably, Netanyahu highlighted that this offensive marks a departure from previous tactics, shifting from targeted raids to an occupation of territory—aiming for a sustained Israeli presence in Gaza.

Pressure Mounts for Hostage Negotiations

Security cabinet member Zeev Elkin noted a 'window of opportunity' for possible hostages' release before Trump’s visit, asserting that Hamas must recognize the seriousness of Israel's actions.

Israeli military Chief of Staff Lt Gen Eyal Zamid recently emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, "We are ramping up our operations in Gaza to bring our people home and dismantle Hamas’s infrastructure, both above and below ground."

Criticism Grows Over Military Strategy

However, critics argue this approach is misdirected, especially since no hostages have been liberated in the six weeks since the offensive reignited. The Hostages and Missing Families Forum criticized the government for prioritizing territorial gains over the welfare of captives.

Concerns Over Humanitarian Distribution Plans

An Israeli source revealed plans for regulated humanitarian aid distribution to counteract Hamas’s control over supplies and disrupt its governance capabilities. Yet, the Humanitarian Country Team, comprising UN agencies, cautioned that the proposed system could further isolate vulnerable populations in Gaza.

They condemned the plan as a potential breach of humanitarian principles, criticizing it as a military tactic designed to manipulate civil life in Gaza.

Status of Humanitarian Supplies and International Law

Since cutting off all aid deliveries on March 2, Israel has faced significant backlash, with the UN underscoring the nation’s legal obligations to provide for the 2.1 million Palestinians in Gaza, the majority of whom have been displaced.

Israel, in its defense, asserts compliance with international laws, denying widespread shortages of aid.

Background of Recent Conflict

This military escalation follows a shocking cross-border assault on October 7, 2023, which resulted in the deaths of around 1,200 Israelis and the capture of 251 hostages. In the aftermath, estimates suggest that over 52,535 people have lost their lives in Gaza, according to the Hamas-run health ministry.

As both sides brace for what lies ahead, the world watches closely, hoping for a resolution that prioritizes peace and humanitarian rights.