Israel Aims for Full Control Over Gaza Amidst Ongoing Conflict

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on May 19th that Israel intends to establish full control over the entire territory of the Gaza Strip. This statement was made amidst ongoing intensive fighting and military advancements. Netanyahu emphasized the need to act decisively to achieve this goal. He stated that nothing should deter the army from maintaining order and preventing the looting of humanitarian aid. The Israeli Security Cabinet has been discussing plans for further military presence in Gaza. This discussion follows the conclusion of military operations. However, it remains uncertain whether Israeli forces will control the entire sector or only key populated areas. Since Monday, May 19th, Israel has resumed allowing humanitarian aid into Gaza, a move previously criticized by the UN due to potential starvation. Since October 7, 2023, the situation in the Near East has sharply escalated. Hamas launched a mass attack on Israel, resulting in significant casualties and the abduction of over 250 hostages. Israel has responded with military operations in Gaza, leading to a high number of Palestinian casualties. The Hamas-controlled health ministry reports over 53,000 Palestinian deaths and over 120,000 injuries, but does not specify how many were combatants.