Israel Declares Intent to Take Full Control of Gaza as Aid Resumes Amid Intensified Fighting

In a stark escalation of the ongoing conflict, Israel announced on Monday its plan to “take control” of the entire Gaza Strip, where the situation has deteriorated into a dire humanitarian crisis. For the first time in more than two months, limited aid entered Gaza, offering a glimmer of relief to the two million residents trapped under a total Israeli blockade since March 2.

Rescue teams reported dozens of casualties amid a renewed and intensified Israeli offensive, which has drawn mounting international concern. The World Health Organization painted a bleak picture, warning that the besieged territory’s population faces widespread starvation. Israel’s military actions and the blockade have left Gaza’s residents in desperate need of essentials such as food, medicine, and fuel.

Israel justified the limited aid entry by citing “practical and diplomatic reasons,” including concerns about the impact of images of mass starvation on the legitimacy of its military operations. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized that the aid was a necessary step, but also hinted at the broader military objectives, stating that taking control of Gaza was part of strategic considerations.

The first five trucks carrying supplies, including food for babies, managed to enter Gaza on Monday. However, UN officials expressed frustration over the limited scope of aid. UN humanitarian chief Tom Fletcher noted that nine trucks had been cleared to enter but described the aid flow as “a drop in the ocean of what is urgently needed.” He added that none of the supplies had yet been distributed within Gaza, citing security concerns and the onset of darkness as obstacles to operational operations.

Stephane Dujarric, a UN spokesman, explained that the aid was in a designated zone but remained uncollected due to ongoing security issues. The UN continues to call for increased humanitarian access and an urgent response to the mounting crisis, warning that without greater aid, the population’s suffering will only deepen.