Israel has threatened to level Gaza City unless Hamas disarms and releases all hostages.
Gaza City
Israel’s defence minister, Israel Katz, has warned that Gaza City will face complete destruction if Hamas refuses to disarm and release all remaining hostages. His remarks followed the Israeli cabinet’s approval of a large-scale assault on Gaza City, despite mounting domestic and international criticism.
Earlier this week, Hamas accepted a ceasefire plan brokered by Qatar and Egypt that would last 60 days and secure the release of half the hostages. However, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu dismissed the proposal, insisting on terms that guarantee the release of all hostages and a decisive end to the conflict.
Israel estimates that of the 50 hostages believed to be in Gaza, only 20 are still alive. Netanyahu, in a visit to the Gaza division headquarters, said he had authorized the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to prepare for full control of Gaza City while simultaneously pushing for negotiations.
Reinforcing this stance, Katz declared on social media that “the gates of hell” would open on Hamas unless it agrees to Israel’s conditions. He warned that Gaza City could face devastation similar to Rafah and Beit Hanoun, both reduced to rubble in earlier operations.
The IDF has instructed international organisations to prepare for the evacuation of Gaza City’s one million residents ahead of the offensive. The UN and aid groups, however, have pledged to stay, citing a worsening humanitarian crisis marked by mass civilian casualties, famine risk, and the collapse of health infrastructure.