URGENT UPDATE: The Israeli military has issued forced displacement orders for parts of Gaza City and Khan Younis, heightening fears that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is preparing for a full occupation of the Palestinian territory. This alarming development comes as the humanitarian crisis in Gaza deepens, with reports of 135 Palestinians killed, including 87 aid seekers, in Israeli strikes over the past 24 hours.
As the situation escalates, Netanyahu’s government has been facing intense scrutiny from both military leaders and international observers. U.S. President Donald Trump stated on Tuesday, “Any decision over expanded Israeli control in Gaza is up to Israel,” reflecting a lack of direct intervention from the U.S. amid rising tensions.
The latest displacement orders, described by the Israeli Defense Force as an “evacuation,” follow a pattern that has seen the vast majority of Gaza’s population uprooted multiple times. Many residents have only recently returned to find their homes damaged or looted, intensifying the dire conditions.
According to Gaza’s health ministry, five additional deaths from starvation were reported as the region grapples with severe food shortages due to Israel’s blockade on humanitarian aid, which has been in place since earlier this year. The crisis has prompted Jordan to send an aid convoy of 30 trucks to Gaza, only to face attacks from militant Jewish settlers upon entering Israel. Jordan’s government spokesperson Mohammad al-Momani emphasized, “This requires serious Israeli intervention,” underscoring the urgency of the situation.
Amidst this chaos, an aid truck overturned near the Nuseirat refugee camp late Tuesday, resulting in 20 fatalities and dozens injured. Spokesperson Mahmoud Bassal reported that hundreds were waiting for aid when the tragic incident occurred, highlighting the desperate state of the population.
Reports indicate that Netanyahu is committed to expanding military operations in Gaza following consultations with military chiefs, despite growing dissent from former and current Israeli security officials. Critics—including opposition leader Yair Lapid—have warned that a full occupation could jeopardize the lives of Israeli hostages in Gaza and risk further international isolation for Israel.
“You don’t make such a move if a majority of the people aren’t with you,” Lapid remarked after his meeting with Netanyahu.
Among the critics are former leaders of Israel’s Shin Bet and Mossad, who argue that the far-right government’s approach is putting the nation “hostage” to prolonged conflict. Ex-Shin Bet chief Yoram Cohen called the objectives for Gaza “a fantasy” in a recent video shared on social media.
Defense Minister Israel Katz acknowledged the concerns, stating that while the army’s chief of staff Eyal Zamir may express dissent, the military will execute any government decisions. Reports suggest that Zamir is opposed to a full military occupation, warning it could be a “trap.” His concerns were raised during a meeting with Netanyahu and security officials this week.
The humanitarian situation continues to deteriorate as Gaza’s civil defense agency reports widespread devastation from relentless Israeli airstrikes. Officials warn of increasing chaos as aid trucks face looting and violence upon arrival, further complicating efforts to provide relief to the millions affected.
The international community watches closely as the conflict escalates, with diplomatic repercussions looming for Israel. Observers are urged to stay updated as this situation develops, with significant implications for regional stability and humanitarian efforts.
As the world reacts, the urgency for resolution and humanitarian assistance in Gaza has never been more critical. The next steps from both Israeli officials and the international community will be pivotal in shaping the future of the region.
