Israel has approved a military budget of 112 billion shekels ($34 billion) for the upcoming year, marking an increase from the initially planned 90 billion shekels ($27 billion).
Sources report that eastern and northeastern areas of Gaza’s southern city of Khan Younis have been subjected to renewed Israeli artillery shelling, gunfire, and helicopter strikes, raising concerns over the possibility of a full-scale escalation.
Witnesses on the ground express fears that ceasefire violations could lead to a renewed, more intense conflict.
Meanwhile, Israeli media confirmed the killing of Yasser Abu Shabab, a Gaza militia leader who rose to prominence last year. Previously little known within the Palestinian enclave, Abu Shabab had become the leader of the “Popular Forces,” a well-armed militia of at least 100 fighters operating in Israeli-controlled areas of Gaza.
The group, initially called the “Anti-Terror Service,” has gained notoriety for its confrontations with Israeli forces.
The funding boost comes amidst continued military operations in Gaza, despite a ceasefire agreement reached on October 10.