Israel’s cabinet changed course on Gaza in dramatic fashion. It decided to “expand” military operations in the strip again and put in place a new plan to distribute aid to Gaza’s population. Israel’s hard right sees a path to a permanent reoccupation.

Two Israeli officials say ministers have approved a plan to seize the Gaza Strip and to stay in the territory for an unspecified amount of time.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared today that Israel was “on the eve of a forceful entry to Gaza.” Israel’s security cabinet voted last night to approve a new plan for tens of thousands of additional soldiers to seize and hold territory in Gaza and relocate Palestinians to the south.