Israeli army approves ‘framework’ for Gaza offensive as Hamas claims of ‘aggressive’ incursions
The approval for the expanded offensive comes days after Israel’s security cabinet called for the seizure of Gaza’s largest city
The Israeli military said on Wednesday it had approved the framework for a new offensive in the Gaza Strip, as Hamas condemned what it called “aggressive” Israeli ground incursions in Gaza City.
The approval for the expanded offensive comes days after Israel’s security cabinet called for the seizure of Gaza’s largest city, following 22 months of war that have created dire humanitarian conditions in the Palestinian territory.
Israeli armed forces chief Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir “approved the main framework for the IDF’s operational plan in the Gaza Strip,” a statement released by the army said.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government has not provided a precise timetable for when Israeli troops will enter Gaza City, where thousands have taken refuge after fleeing previous offensives.
Ismail Al-Thawabta, director general of the Hamas government media office in Gaza, said on Wednesday that “the Israeli occupation forces continue to carry out aggressive incursions in Gaza City”.
“These assaults represent a dangerous escalation aimed at imposing a new reality on the ground by force, through a scorched-earth policy and the complete destruction of civilian property,” he added.