Israel’s security cabinet has unanimously approved a sweeping plan to capture the entire Gaza Strip and maintain a military presence for an indefinite period, marking the most significant escalation in the conflict since the collapse of the last ceasefire in March. The move, which Israeli officials say is aimed at defeating Hamas and securing the release of remaining hostages, will see tens of thousands of reservists mobilized and a phased expansion of ground operations over several months.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that the plan includes relocating Gaza’s civilian population further south “for their own protection,” a step that aid agencies warn will deepen the already dire humanitarian crisis in the enclave. Israel currently controls about half of Gaza, and the new strategy is expected to push hundreds of thousands more Palestinians into the southern region, where food shortages and overcrowding are acute.

The military operation-codenamed “Gideon’s Chariots”-will not commence until after U.S. President Donald Trump’s visit to the region next week, a window Israeli officials say could allow for last-ditch hostage negotiations. If no deal is reached, the offensive will proceed, with Israeli forces holding territory until Hamas is disarmed or defeated.

The cabinet also tentatively approved a plan to restart humanitarian aid deliveries through private channels, but the United Nations and aid groups have refused to participate, citing violations of humanitarian principles. As the humanitarian blockade persists, international criticism is mounting, with concerns that Israel’s new aid framework amounts to “political blackmail” and will worsen civilian suffering.

Families of Israeli hostages have voiced alarm, fearing that the intensified military push could jeopardize their loved ones’ safety and reduce the chances of a negotiated release. Meanwhile, far-right ministers have openly called for the permanent annexation of Gaza, further fueling international unease over Israel’s long-term intentions.

With the war’s focus shifting from hostage recovery to the outright defeat of Hamas, the coming weeks are expected to bring heightened military activity and even greater humanitarian challenges for Gaza’s beleaguered population.

“We are conquering Gaza, clearing it out and taking control of every area we enter… We will eliminate Hamas, defeat it, subdue it, and bring the hostages back. This is the only way,” said Prime Minister Netanyahu.