Israel Expands Military Operations and Forms New Security Zone in Gaza

The IDF is expanding operations in southern Gaza, creating a new security zone between Rafah and Egypt. They control one-third of Gaza, aiming to dismantle Hamas infrastructure. Resumed hostilities raise concerns over a potential occupation, with ongoing negotiations for hostages and ceasefire agreements involving multiple nations.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) are increasing their military presence in the southern Gaza Strip and forming a new security zone that stretches between the city of Rafah and the Egyptian border, as reported by Bloomberg. This initiative includes the expansion of the Morag Corridor, linking Rafah to the Philadelphi Corridor along the border with Egypt, thus establishing a comprehensive security area within the region.

IDF spokesperson Avichai Adrei indicated that Israel currently controls approximately one-third of the Gaza Strip, designating these territories as a “defensive security zone.” He emphasized that future ground operations will be dictated by the evolving operational circumstances, focusing on the destruction of Hamas infrastructure situated both above and below ground.

Following a ceasefire and prisoner exchange agreement in January 2025, which involved the release of hostages and a six-week truce, active confrontations have reignited. On March 2, the IDF launched a ground operation in Rafah aimed at further solidifying its newly established security zone. The escalation has raised concerns about a potential full-scale occupation of Gaza and heightened Israeli efforts to secure the release of remaining hostages while demanding the demilitarization of Hamas.

Mahmoud Mardawi, a Hamas representative, made it clear to Bloomberg that the group has no intention of surrendering its arms or including this in negotiations. He noted preparations for a response to Israel’s proposals, to be communicated through international mediators. Following an April 15 rejection of a new Israeli proposal that required militants to vacate the region, Hamas has insisted on an IDF withdrawal and the resumption of hostage exchanges. Ongoing negotiations for a renewed ceasefire are being mediated by the United States, Qatar, and Egypt.

In summary, the Israel Defense Forces are intensifying their operations in Gaza by establishing new security zones aimed at controlling areas around Rafah while engaging in efforts to dismantle Hamas infrastructure. The recent escalation follows a temporary ceasefire, highlighting the fragility of the situation as hostages remain a focal point in ongoing negotiations. The interactions between Israeli and Hamas representatives signify a complicated path ahead as both sides navigate through potential agreements and demands in the conflict.

Original Source: newsukraine.rbc.ua