On May 5th, Israel’s cabinet decided to expand military operations in Gaza and implement a new aid distribution plan, reflecting a shift towards potential reoccupation supported by the hard right. Realists in the Israel Defence Forces believe this strategy aims to decisively weaken Hamas, while critics warn it will exacerbate civilian suffering. This pivot occurs just before President Trump’s visit to the Gulf states on May 13th-16th, amidst a critical food shortage in Gaza and accusations against Israel of a starvation policy.