Israel Expands Control in Gaza Amid Growing Protests Against Hamas

In a significant escalation of military operations, Israel has announced an expansion of its control in the Gaza Strip, intensifying pressure on Hamas as part of ongoing efforts to secure the release of hostages. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu revealed plans for the military to advance into a corridor separating the southern cities of Rafah and Khan Younis, stating the objective is to reclaim strategic routes previously abandoned in 2005.

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz confirmed that the military is set to capture extensive areas within Gaza, designating them as Israeli security zones. Reports suggest that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) currently control nearly 30 percent of the Gaza territory.

During a visit to Rafah, IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir emphasized that the release of hostages is the only factor that could impede further military advancement. According to Israeli sources, there are currently 24 living hostages held by Palestinian militants in Gaza, along with the remains of several others.

Protests against Hamas have erupted across Gaza, particularly in Beit Lahia, where hundreds demonstrated against the group's governance and the ongoing conflict. Witnesses reported chants calling for the removal of Hamas amid the destruction left in the wake of military operations.

The Hamas-controlled health authority reported over 70 fatalities due to the recent Israeli military actions, though these figures are challenging to verify and do not distinguish between combatants and civilians. A recent airstrike reportedly targeted a UNRWA clinic in Jabalia, resulting in the deaths of at least 19 individuals, including minors, with reports indicating that a two-week-old infant was among the casualties.

Israeli military officials claim the airstrike was aimed at Hamas operatives believed to be coordinating attacks against Israel from a location described as a central command post for the organization. They assert that precautions were taken to minimize civilian casualties.

Israeli forces have encircled a neighborhood in Rafah, where ground troops have been active for approximately two weeks. The IDF has urged residents of Rafah and surrounding areas to evacuate due to the ongoing military operations.

United Nations estimates indicate that over 100,000 people have fled southern Gaza in recent days, as extensive Israeli bombardments and ground maneuvers have led to widespread destruction.

Additionally, the Israeli Air Force conducted strikes on multiple targets in Syria, reportedly resulting in four deaths and several injuries. The strikes were aimed at military infrastructure, including a military airbase in Hama and another facility known as T4, situated further south.

Netanyahu's visit to Hungary marks his first trip to Europe since the International Criminal Court issued a warrant for his arrest in connection with alleged war crimes during the Gaza conflict. Despite the warrant, a detention is unlikely, as Hungary has not committed to the ICC's regulations, leading to criticism of Prime Minister Viktor Orban's government for undermining democratic principles within the country.