Israeli troops are expanding their control over ground in northern Gaza, sparking renewed concerns about civilian casualties and human rights abuses. The military announced plans to seize large areas as a security zone, despite Palestinian demands for negotiations.
The operation, which began on March 18, has already displaced over 280,000 people in Gaza, according to the United Nations. Local residents say Israeli strikes have hit vital infrastructure such as water desalination plants and schools, leaving many without access to basic necessities like clean drinking water.
At least 35 Palestinians were killed on Friday, mostly in southern areas of Gaza, according to health authorities. The military claims its forces are taking precautions to limit casualties but hundreds of Palestinians have been killed since the operation resumed.
Hamas says it will only free 59 hostages still held in Gaza if Israel agrees to a permanent end to the war and a deal is reached. A spokesperson for Hamas’s armed wing has warned that Israeli actions must be met with immediate negotiations for the hostages’ evacuation or release.
The expansion of the security zone has sparked concerns about Israel’s long-term aims, including permanently depopulating swathes of land in Gaza. The operation is seen as part of a broader plan to reorganize the Gaza Strip under U.S. control, as proposed by former President Donald Trump.
As tensions escalate, the risk of a wider return to war has increased, with Israel striking targets in both Lebanon and Syria over recent days.
Source: https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/israeli-troops-expand-security-zone-northern-gaza-2025-04-04