Netanyahu Expands Gaza Offensive Amid Criticism

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has expanded the military offensive in Gaza to include central camps and Muwasi, areas sheltering over half a million displaced people, in addition to Gaza City. The move has sparked warnings from UN officials and international actors such as the UK, France, China, and Russia, who argue the plan risks a severe humanitarian crisis and potential violations of international law. Netanyahu has denied accusations of using starvation as a tactic, stating there is no hunger in Gaza and that Israel will increase aid distribution. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and other right-wing coalition members have criticized the strategy for not ensuring a decisive victory, advocating for annexation of parts of Gaza and total defeat of Hamas. Protests have erupted within Israel, reflecting deepening domestic divisions over the government's approach. Meanwhile, Hamas has indicated willingness to negotiate a ceasefire through mediators, further highlighting fractures in both Israeli and international consensus on the conflict.