The Israel Defense Forces are expanding their operations in Gaza, forming a new security zone between Rafah and Egypt. They currently control one-third of the area, aiming to dismantle Hamas’ infrastructure. After a recent ceasefire, hostilities resumed, with ongoing negotiations involving international mediators.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) are intensifying their operations in the southern Gaza Strip by establishing a new security zone that extends from Rafah to the border with Egypt. This expansion includes the so-called Morag Corridor, which links Rafah to the Philadelphi Corridor along the border. This newly designated security zone is viewed as a critical area by Israeli military operations.
IDF spokesperson Avichai Adrei indicated that the Israeli military currently controls about one-third of the Gaza Strip, treating the occupied territories as a defensive zone. Ground operations will adapt according to the operational landscape, with explicit plans to dismantle Hamas infrastructure both above and below ground.
The ongoing conflict follows a ceasefire and a prisoner exchange agreed upon in January 2025. As per Israeli intelligence, Palestinian militants may still be holding 59 hostages, with fewer than 25 thought to be alive. However, active combat resumed on March 2 after a brief six-week truce, leading to a renewed ground operation in Rafah aimed at expanding the security zone.
The recent escalation raises concerns regarding a potential full-scale occupation of Gaza, with Israeli officials applying pressure for the release of all hostages and the demilitarization of Hamas. Mahmoud Mardawi, a representative of Hamas, emphasized that they have no intention of disarming, dismissing the issue as negotiable. He mentioned that a response to Israel’s proposals would be sent to international mediators.
On April 15, Hamas rejected a new Israeli proposal, which included demands for militants to vacate the enclave. The group requests that the IDF withdraw from Gaza while resuming the hostage exchange negotiations. Ongoing discussions for a new ceasefire are being facilitated by the United States, Qatar, and Egypt.
In conclusion, Israel’s intensified military operations in the Gaza Strip, particularly the establishment of a new security zone between Rafah and the Egyptian border, underscore the ongoing conflict’s complexity. The IDF aims to eliminate Hamas infrastructure while diplomatic efforts for a ceasefire and hostage negotiations persist. However, the resistance from Hamas highlights significant challenges ahead in reaching a sustainable resolution.
Original Source: newsukraine.rbc.ua
