Israel planning new Gaza City op in March, but will need okay from Trump — officials
The Times of Israel••world
Key Points:
- The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) is planning a renewed intensive military offensive in Gaza City in March, aiming to push the ceasefire demarcation (the Yellow Line) westward toward the coast, thereby expanding Israeli control over the territory.
- The planned operation depends on U.S. support, which is currently focused on advancing the fragile October ceasefire to a second phase involving Hamas's disarmament; however, Prime Minister Netanyahu is skeptical about the success of disarming Hamas and has ordered the IDF to prepare contingency plans.
- Since the October 10 ceasefire, Israeli forces have controlled about 53% of Gaza, and the March offensive would increase this control; strategies under consideration include a rapid takeover of Gaza City to force Hamas
