Israel’s defence minister has announced that the military will “vigorously” expand its offensive throughout most of Gaza, taking over a new “security zone”. The takeover comes after Israel seized large areas of Gaza in recent weeks, displacing hundreds of thousands of people.
Israeli officials say the goal is to pressure Hamas into freeing 59 hostages being held in Gaza, with 24 believed to be alive. The military has already taken control of land along Gaza’s borders, and officials warn that “IDF activity will soon expand vigorously” to additional locations.
Evacuation orders have been issued for several areas, including the southern city of Khan Younis, as Israel prepares to respond to projectiles launched from Gaza. The UN has warned that these orders fail to comply with international law.
Hamas has condemned Israel’s actions, saying they kill “defenceless civilians” and make hostages’ fates uncertain. The health ministry in Gaza reported 21 deaths and 64 injuries over the past 24 hours, bringing the total death toll since Israel restarted its offensive to 1,563.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/ckg5jwyje0do