Gaza City / Rafah, Palestinian Territories – Israeli forces have intensified their military campaign across Gaza, killing more than 20 Palestinians in recent airstrikes as the army pushes to establish a permanent “buffer zone” along the border—a move analysts warn could forcibly displace hundreds of thousands into Egypt.
Escalation in Southern Gaza
The latest phase of Israel’s offensive has targeted Rafah, Khan Younis, and central Gaza, with evacuation orders forcing mass displacement to the already overwhelmed al-Mawasi coastal strip. In Rafah, an airstrike on a residential building killed at least 15 people, overwhelming local hospitals, according to the Palestinian Civil Defence.
- Humanitarian Crisis: The UN reports all 25 World Food Programme-supported bakeries have shut down amid Israel’s total blockade since March 2.
- Famine Conditions: Hamas officials declare Gaza has entered a “famine phase,” with aid groups warning of catastrophic food and medical shortages.
- West Bank Raids: Israeli forces wounded a Palestinian in Tulkarem and conducted mass arrests in Nur Shams refugee camp, part of a 66-day offensive that has killed at least 13.
Strategic Buffer Zone Sparks Displacement Fears
Israel’s military aims to seize 25% of Gaza, including a 1-kilometer-wide security perimeter along the border—a move Palestinians fear is a prelude to permanent expulsion.
“The residents of Gaza must act now to remove Hamas—this is the only way to end the war,” Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz declared on social media. But critics, including UN officials, accuse Israel of collective punishment, with forced evacuations and systematic demolition of civilian infrastructure.
U.S. Role Under Scrutiny
Reports suggest the Trump administration previously backed a plan to resettle Gazans in Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula—a strategy that may still influence current operations. The Biden administration, while calling for restraint, continues military support, drawing condemnation from human rights groups.
What’s Next?
- Expanded Ground Assault: Israeli troops are advancing deeper into Rafah, despite warnings of a humanitarian catastrophe.
- International Pressure: The UN and Arab states demand an immediate ceasefire, but diplomatic efforts remain stalled.
- Hostage Negotiations: Israel insists military pressure will force Hamas to release remaining captives, though critics argue the offensive only deepens civilian suffering.
