**Israeli Defense Minister Confirms Troops' Presence in Gaza Post-Conflict**

Amidst continuing violence in Gaza, Israel's Defense Minister confirms troops will maintain a presence in newly established "security zones" to protect Israeli communities, even post-conflict.

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz has announced that Israeli troops will remain in strategically established "security zones" within Gaza, even after hostilities cease. This decision comes as the Israeli offensive, ongoing for the past three weeks, has resulted in significant territorial gains, with Katz stating that "tens of percent" of the Palestinian territory has been included in these zones. He characterized these areas as essential "buffers" to safeguard Israeli communities against future threats.

Despite warnings from international organizations about the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, including a statement from Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) branding it a "mass grave for Palestinians," Israel plans to persist with its blockade of humanitarian aid until Hamas releases hostages. The toll from the ongoing conflict has been staggering, with reports indicating over 1,650 deaths in Gaza since military action resumed on March 18, including at least 24 fatalities from recent strikes around Gaza City.

In a statement regarding military strategy, Katz emphasized the IDF's commitment to continue operations against Hamas while ensuring hostages' safe return. He noted that the military will no longer evacuate cleared areas, likening the approach to past operations in Lebanon and Syria. However, this stance has drawn criticism, including from the Hostages and Missing Families Forum, who denounced the plan as an "illusion", claiming territory acquisition is prioritized over hostage recovery.

The ongoing humanitarian blockade has drawn ire from UN agencies, which assert that claims of sufficient aid are misleading, and there are increasing shortages in critical supplies. According to MSF, the humanitarian efforts are faltering amid steep insecurity and resource scarcity. An alarming increase in malnutrition has also been reported, as access to essential care diminishes.

This renewed conflict was ignited by a devastating cross-border attack on October 7, 2023, which led to the death of about 1,200 individuals and the capture of hundreds of hostages. The last reported ceasefire briefly allowed humanitarian aid to enter Gaza; however, since its breakdown in early March, Israel has resumed its blockade and military action.

As diplomatic efforts to negotiate a lasting resolution continue, the humanitarian situation in Gaza remains critical, with significant immediate and long-term consequences for both the local population and the overall conflict resolution strategies.