Israel Prepares Gaza Offensive as Hamas Negotiates Disarmament

The Israeli Defense Forces are preparing for a potential return to large-scale ground operations in the Gaza Strip. Army Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir approved operational plans from the Southern Command, citing assessments that Hamas rebuilt its military capabilities during ceasefires on other fronts. While Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is pushing for a new offensive, the Israeli government has not yet officially approved the expansion of fighting.

Simultaneously, senior Hamas officials are meeting with mediators from Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey in Cairo to draft a framework for the organization's disarmament. These complex negotiations involve a coordinated position among various militant groups operating within the Gaza Strip. Palestinian factions are also discussing the territory's future governance.

Parallel to these diplomatic efforts, the Board of Peace is implementing healthcare, education, and infrastructure projects in areas of Gaza not controlled by Hamas. The board has refused to wait for a response to disarmament proposals, stating that long-term investment in Hamas-controlled zones remains impossible due to current breaches of agreement. Mustafa Barghouti of the Palestinian National Initiative has accused Israel of deliberately worsening living conditions to force the migration of Gaza residents.