May 5, 2025 – The Israeli government has approved an expansion of its military campaign in Gaza, even as ceasefire negotiations continue and the humanitarian crisis worsens. The move, officials say, won’t be enacted until after U.S. President Donald Trump’s expected visit to the region next week.
In a high-stakes cabinet meeting, Israel’s security leadership unanimously backed the offensive plan. The decision underscores Israel’s two-pronged strategy: intensifying military pressure while addressing mounting international criticism over the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza.
Humanitarian Aid Reforms Amid War Plans
Alongside the offensive decision, the Israeli cabinet approved a revised humanitarian aid mechanism aimed at preventing alleged misuse by Hamas. The updated system will see aid distributed by private contractors and international organizations, with the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) securing surrounding areas.
National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir was the only minister to oppose the aid plan.
Officials argue the changes are designed to reduce the diversion of food and supplies by militant groups. However, aid organizations remain concerned about access, safety, and the deteriorating conditions inside Gaza.
Rising Death Toll and Continued Bombardment
The human cost of the conflict continues to climb at an alarming rate.
According to Gaza’s Health Ministry, at least 23 Palestinians were killed and 119 wounded in Israeli attacks over the past 24 hours. Additionally, nine bodies from earlier bombings were recovered.
Since the start of the war on October 7, 2023, Israeli airstrikes and ground operations have killed 52,567 Palestinians and injured 118,610 others. After Israel broke a January ceasefire with a surprise aerial assault on March 18 — killing 1,574 and wounding more than 4,100 in a single day — another 2,459 people have been killed and over 6,500 injured in continued strikes.
Legal and Global Pressure Intensifies
The growing civilian casualties have brought intense international scrutiny. Last November, the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant on charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity.
Israel is also facing a genocide case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) over its conduct in Gaza — a first in the nation’s history.
Aid groups and global leaders continue to demand unrestricted humanitarian access to the besieged territory, warning of an impending disaster if conditions do not improve.
What Comes Next?
With President Trump’s visit looming, Israel appears to be holding off on launching the full-scale offensive until diplomatic efforts — including a potential hostage exchange agreement with Hamas — are resolved.
While some Israeli officials hope for a ceasefire breakthrough, preparations for expanded operations suggest that another wave of military escalation is on the horizon.
The coming days may prove pivotal not just for Gaza, but for the broader geopolitical landscape in the Middle East.
Stay with PakCorrespondent.com for continuing coverage of the conflict.
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