In pressing forward with its assault on the territory, Israel hopes to squeeze Hamas into releasing the remaining hostages. But other objectives have emerged.

Hamas is expected to release the remaining Israeli hostages held in Gaza and permanently end the war, according to Palestinian officials.

Israel resumed its military offensive in Gaza in March, blaming Hamas for rejecting a new US proposal to extend the ceasefire and free the remaining hostages. Since then, the Israeli military has launched waves of airstrikes on the besieged territory,

Israel’s defense minister said the military is taking control of significant territory to establish security zones.