Israel Expands Gaza Offensive, Threatens Annexation Over Hostage Crisis

Israeli military operations intensify as Defense Minister orders territorial seizures, deepening the humanitarian crisis and drawing international condemnation.

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz has ordered the military to seize more territory in Gaza, with the potential for annexation if Hamas does not release 58 Israeli hostages.
Over 600 Palestinians, including 190 minors, have been killed since the resumption of Israeli strikes, with humanitarian conditions worsening rapidly.
Israeli President Isaac Herzog has expressed concern over the renewed offensive, questioning its impact on national resilience and the safety of hostages.
France and other international actors have condemned Israel's annexation threats, while the UN has reported casualties among its personnel in Gaza.
Hamas, though weakened significantly since October 2023, continues to resist Israeli operations and has launched retaliatory rocket attacks.