Senior members of Israel’s Cabinet were expected to vote Sunday on whether to escalate military operations in Gaza, as the army began mobilizing thousands of reserve troops in anticipation of a broader offensive, according to Israeli officials.
Also on Sunday, a missile fired by Iranian-aligned Houthi rebels in Yemen caused a temporary suspension of air traffic at Ben-Gurion Airport, Israel’s main international airport. The military confirmed that a projectile landed near the airport, though it was unclear if it was the missile itself or part of Israel's missile defense response.
The potential escalation in Gaza comes amid worsening humanitarian conditions over 18 months into the conflict. In March, Israel cut off the flow of goods into Gaza in an effort to pressure Hamas into accepting a ceasefire on Israel’s terms, contributing to what aid organizations say is the most severe humanitarian crisis since the conflict began. Gaza’s population of 2.3 million faces extreme food shortages and widespread displacement.
A ceasefire that had lasted for eight weeks broke down in March, after which Israel resumed airstrikes on March 18 and has since gained control of portions of Gaza. Hundreds of Palestinians have died since fighting resumed, according to local health authorities, while at least six Israeli soldiers have also been killed.
A government official, speaking anonymously, confirmed that the country’s security Cabinet would meet Sunday evening to vote on intensifying the campaign. A military official also confirmed that reserve forces were being called up.
Far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, in a radio interview, called for a forceful expansion of the military campaign, saying Israel must push for "total victory."
The war began when Hamas-led militants launched a surprise attack in southern Israel, killing 1,200 people and abducting 250.
According to Palestinian health authorities, over 52,000 people—many of them women and children—have died in Gaza since the war began. Their tallies do not differentiate between civilians and fighters.
More than 90% of Gaza’s residents have been displaced, many repeatedly. The ongoing scarcity of food has led to widespread hunger and incidents of looting.
Meanwhile, as the Gaza conflict continues, Israel has also been targeted by the Houthi rebels. Sunday's missile attack led to panic and confusion at Ben-Gurion Airport, with video footage showing smoke rising near the area and passengers scrambling for safety. Authorities closed access to the airport temporarily and later resumed road and rail services. Four people sustained minor injuries, according to Israel's emergency medical service.
Defense Minister Israel Katz vowed a strong response, declaring: “We will strike back seven times harder against anyone who harms us.”