Israel announced a significant expansion of its military control in southern Gaza on Saturday, declaring the completion of the takeover of the "Morag axis." This newly secured corridor effectively bisects Gaza between Rafah and Khan Yunis, transforming the entire area stretching from the Philadelphi Route along the Egyptian border to Morag into an Israeli security zone. Defense Minister Israel Katz conveyed this development to the residents of Gaza, simultaneously signaling an impending intensification and broadening of Israeli military operations across much of the territory. Katz also indicated a parallel expansion of security zones in northern Gaza, specifically mentioning Beit Hanoun and the Netzarim corridor, where residents are reportedly evacuating.

These territorial advancements by the Israeli military coincide with cautious optimism from Hamas regarding potential progress towards a ceasefire agreement. Senior leaders from the Palestinian movement were scheduled to engage in crucial talks with Egyptian mediators in Cairo on Saturday, raising hopes for a de-escalation of the ongoing conflict. A Hamas official, speaking anonymously, expressed anticipation that the Cairo meeting would yield "real progress" in achieving an end to the war, a cessation of Israeli aggression, and the complete withdrawal of occupying forces from the Gaza Strip. This hopeful outlook follows the collapse of a previous ceasefire in mid-March, after which Israel renewed its offensive, leading to further displacement and territorial seizure.

Top Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, have consistently stated that the continued military assault is aimed at exerting pressure on Hamas to secure the release of the remaining hostages held in Gaza. However, Hamas has countered this narrative, asserting that the offensive not only results in the tragic loss of innocent civilian lives but also jeopardizes the fate of the Israeli hostages. Defense Minister Katz's announcements of expanded military control came just prior to the anticipated meeting between Hamas representatives and Egyptian mediators, highlighting the complex and interconnected nature of the military and diplomatic efforts.

The scheduled talks in Cairo also followed recent suggestions from US President Donald Trump that an agreement for the release of hostages was nearing finalization. Trump's Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, was reportedly quoted in Israeli media indicating that a "very serious deal is taking shape" and could be a matter of days away. While the Hamas official stated that the group had not yet received any new formal ceasefire proposals, despite reports of exchanged draft documents between Israel and Egypt, they confirmed that "contacts and discussions with mediators are ongoing." The official also accused Israel of "continuing its aggression" within Gaza, underscoring the persistent tensions despite the diplomatic efforts.

The ongoing conflict in Gaza, triggered by Hamas's attack on Israel in October 2023, has resulted in a devastating toll on both sides. Since the collapse of the previous ceasefire in mid-March, over 1,500 Palestinians have reportedly been killed, according to the health ministry in the Hamas-run territory, which has faced significant aid restrictions. International concern has grown, with the UN human rights office reporting numerous strikes resulting in the deaths of women and children and warning about the potential "forcible transfer" of Palestinians into increasingly smaller areas. As diplomatic efforts continue in Cairo, the situation on the ground remains volatile, marked by ongoing Israeli military operations and the urgent need for a sustainable resolution to the protracted conflict.

Source: https://www.arabnews.com/node/2596767/middle-east