On May 5, 2025, Israel’s security cabinet unanimously approved a bold and controversial plan to expand its military offensive in Gaza, aiming to seize and hold the entire territory. This decision marks a significant shift from temporary raids to a strategy of complete territorial control, raising concerns about humanitarian crises, hostage safety, and international law. As the conflict escalates, the world watches closely, with fears of worsening conditions for Gaza’s 2.1 million residents.
A New Military Strategy
The plan, named “Gideon’s Chariots,” involves capturing Gaza and maintaining a permanent military presence. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized that Israeli forces will not conduct brief operations but will hold the territory to defeat Hamas and secure the release of 59 remaining hostages, up to 24 of whom may still be alive. The Israeli military has mobilized tens of thousands of reservists to support this expanded campaign, which will begin with seizing additional areas and expanding a buffer zone along Gaza’s borders.
The operation is set to start after U.S. President Donald Trump’s visit to the Middle East from May 13 to 16, 2025, providing a brief window for potential ceasefire negotiations with Hamas. However, far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has suggested that Israel may not withdraw from captured territories, even if a hostage deal is reached, hinting at possible annexation—a move that could further complicate peace efforts.
Humanitarian Crisis Deepens
Since March 2, 2025, Israel has imposed a blockade on Gaza, halting all humanitarian aid deliveries. This has left warehouses empty, bakeries closed, and community kitchens days away from running out of supplies. The United Nations warns of a renewed risk of hunger and malnutrition, with Gaza’s healthcare system also crippled by shortages of medicines and equipment.
The security cabinet approved a plan to resume aid through private companies, bypassing Hamas’s control over supplies. However, the UN and other aid agencies have refused to cooperate, arguing that the proposal violates humanitarian principles by forcing civilians into militarized zones to collect aid. Critics, including the Humanitarian Country Team, say this risks the lives of aid workers and vulnerable populations, accusing Israel of using aid as a pressure tactic in its military strategy.
Palestinians in Gaza, like 76-year-old Ahmed Shehata, are defiant. Having endured displacement to the south in 2023, Shehata told the BBC, “This time, we will not leave, even if Israel brings down the tents over our heads.” Others, like Osama Tawfiq, echo this resolve, refusing to be displaced again despite Israeli plans to move Gaza’s population south.
Hostage Dilemma and Public Backlash
The plan has sparked outrage among hostage families and their supporters. The Hostages and Missing Families Forum criticized the government for prioritizing territorial control over the safe return of captives, calling it a betrayal of public sentiment. Polls show over 70% of Israelis favor a negotiated deal over military escalation. Hamas, meanwhile, insists on a comprehensive agreement that includes a full ceasefire, Israeli withdrawal, and reconstruction of Gaza.
Israeli military spokesman Brig. Gen. Effie Defrin emphasized that returning the hostages is the operation’s top priority, but his comments drew sharp criticism from National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, who accused him of undermining political leadership. The lack of progress in freeing hostages since the ceasefire collapsed in March 2025 has fueled public frustration with Netanyahu’s government.
International Reactions
The international community has expressed alarm. The United Kingdom stated it does not support Israel’s expanded operations, while the European Union urged restraint, citing concerns over further Palestinian suffering. The UN’s deputy spokesman, Farhan Haq, warned that prolonged military presence in Gaza would lead to more civilian deaths. President Trump, while pledging to help deliver food to Palestinians, reiterated that Hamas bears responsibility for the conflict.
Israel maintains that it is complying with international law, but critics argue that the blockade and forced displacement violate humanitarian norms. Some accuse Israel of using starvation as a weapon, a potential war crime.
What’s Next?
As Israel prepares for a major offensive, the situation in Gaza grows increasingly dire. The blockade, now in its ninth week, has pushed the population to the brink, while the prospect of mass displacement looms. The coming weeks, particularly Trump’s visit, could determine whether diplomacy prevails or if Gaza faces a prolonged and devastating new phase of conflict. For now, the people of Gaza, the hostages, and the international community brace for an uncertain future.
