Gaza, media: Israeli government approves new phase of offensive

Tel Aviv, May 5 (LaPresse) – The Israeli Security Cabinet has unanimously approved a plan to expand the military offensive in the Gaza Strip. An Israeli official confirmed this to the Times of Israel. The plan is expected to be implemented only after U.S. President Donald Trump's visit to the region next week. Until then, efforts will focus on reaching a ceasefire agreement and a deal with Hamas regarding hostages, according to Israeli media. Additionally, the official stated that the Security Cabinet has approved a plan to resume aid deliveries to Gaza while reviewing the distribution mechanism to minimize diversion of goods by Hamas for its operatives. National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir was the only one to vote against the plan, which will be enacted when the situation in Gaza demands it.