Commercial satellite images have revealed a significant buildup of Israeli troops and equipment near the Gaza border, signaling preparations for a potential new ground offensive, according to three U.S. officials and a former official who viewed the imagery. The formations and movements seen in the images were described as indicators of a major operation.
It remains unclear whether the deployment is intended for an actual assault or to exert pressure in ongoing negotiations. Sources familiar with Israeli discussions said any new operation could target hostage rescues and expand humanitarian aid in safe areas. Israel has conducted ground operations in Gaza since October 27, 2023, with intermittent pauses for ceasefires.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told Fox News that Israel intends to remove Hamas from Gaza and establish a security perimeter, while not seeking to govern the territory.
The buildup comes amid heightened tension between the U.S. and Israel. On July 28, Netanyahu and President Donald Trump had a heated phone exchange over the Gaza Humanitarian Fund (GHF), with Trump rejecting Netanyahu’s claim that reports of starvation in Gaza were fabricated by Hamas. Trump cited evidence showing children suffering from hunger and insisted the situation was real.
White House officials have declined comment on the call. The disagreement prompted U.S. Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff to visit the region, where he discussed humanitarian aid and met with Israeli officials and hostage families. GHF, operating since May, distributes aid only at designated sites, some far from those in need. U.N. figures show more than 1,000 Palestinians have been killed while seeking food at these centers.
Despite efforts to expand aid, Israel believes Hamas is unwilling to negotiate the release of remaining hostages, making military action the more likely path. International pressure is mounting, with several countries considering recognition of a Palestinian state at the U.N. General Assembly in September.
Officials caution that a new offensive carries risks, including the possibility that Hamas could kill hostages or place them in combat zones. Intelligence suggests hostages are concentrated in central Gaza, with one recent video showing an emaciated captive digging his own grave in a tunnel. Sources warned that time is running out for those still held.
