The WSJ has learned about Israel's expansion of operations in Gaza to put pressure on Hamas

Israel is expanding ground operations in the Gaza Strip to try to put pressure on the Palestinian Hamas movement. This was reported on March 23 by The Wall Street Journal (WSJ), citing sources.

"The Israeli military is expanding its ground operations throughout the Gaza Strip, as negotiations on the cessation of hostilities and the release of new hostages have reached an impasse, and the death toll in the enclave exceeds 50,000 people," the publication says.

It clarifies that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) is invading the northern regions of Gaza, expanding the buffer zone and ordering evacuation in the south.

The IDF's presence in a significant part of the enclave is aimed at isolating Hamas, the newspaper writes.

The newspaper claims that for a final victory over Hamas, Israel will have to completely destroy the underground tunnel system and other infrastructure facilities, which may take several months or even years.

At the same time, opponents of the new strategy of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu believe that the destruction of Hamas is impossible without a political settlement of the conflict.

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On March 22, Hamas announced its readiness to discuss a cease-fire in Gaza. The movement's representatives stressed that they consider it necessary for Israel to comply with the ceasefire agreement, and also stated that the movement adheres to the deal and is ready to show all necessary flexibility in order to conclude an agreement on a comprehensive suspension of hostilities in the Gaza Strip.

On March 18, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced the resumption of military operations against Hamas in Gaza. As a result of the Israeli airstrikes, more than 1,000 people were injured, and the death toll increased to 310. The media also said that Israel had warned the administration of US President Donald Trump in advance about the resumption of attacks on Gaza.