• Israel's cabinet may authorize a military takeover of Gaza for the first time in two decades.
• The consideration follows the collapse of ceasefire talks with Hamas amidst mounting international pressure.
• The conflict has resulted in over 60,000 Palestinian deaths and a severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
• Israeli officials are examining alternatives, including expanded military operations and territorial annexation.
• International criticism grows as conditions worsen for the population of Gaza.

Israel's cabinet is poised to authorize a complete military takeover of Gaza for the first time in 20 years, following the breakdown of ceasefire negotiations with Hamas. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is leaning towards this expanded offensive to regain control of the enclave, despite significant international pressure for a ceasefire amid dire humanitarian conditions. This decision, if made, would reverse Israel's 2005 withdrawal from Gaza, which right-wing parties blame for the rise of Hamas in the territory, according to Reuters, HuffPost, and Dawn.

Recent military actions have caused severe devastation in Gaza, resulting in over 60,000 deaths, according to Palestinian health officials. This escalating violence, which began with a Hamas attack on October 7, has also forced nearly all of Gaza’s 2 million residents from their homes, leading to what a global hunger monitor has termed an "unfolding famine." The international community continues to voice outrage, with several European nations indicating they may recognize a Palestinian state unless a ceasefire is reached soon, as reported by Reuters, HuffPost, and Dawn.

On Tuesday, Israeli gunfire resulted in the deaths of at least 13 Palestinians, highlighting the ongoing violence even as reports emerged of Israeli tanks pushing into central Gaza. This maneuver raised concerns among residents who fear an impending complete occupation could be catastrophic. Abu Jehad, a local merchant, articulated the despair felt by many, stating, "If the tanks pushed through, where would we go, into the sea? This will be like a death sentence to the entire population," according to Reuters, HuffPost, and Dawn.

Discussions surrounding potential military actions include the possibility of a prolonged occupation or a targeted operation to dismantle Hamas and rescue hostages. The Israeli military has faced increasing pressure to manage troop levels, as reservists are continually called into action. Furthermore, plans for allowing the import of goods into Gaza could be seen as a move to alleviate the escalating scarcity of essential supplies, though humanitarian agencies have emphasized the critical need for a broader ceasefire to resolve the crisis effectively, as noted by Reuters, HuffPost, and Dawn.