Israel’s Defense Minister Israel Katz has warned that Gaza City could be razed if Hamas does not disarm and release all hostages. The announcement follows Israeli cabinet approval of plans for a major military assault, despite international and domestic opposition.
Hamas recently accepted a 60-day ceasefire proposal mediated by Qatar and Egypt, which included releasing half of the remaining hostages. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejected the deal, insisting that negotiations must secure the release of all hostages and end the war on terms Israel deems acceptable. Netanyahu said, “Defeating Hamas and releasing all our hostages go hand in hand.”Katz added, “Soon, the gates of hell will open upon the heads of Hamas… If they do not agree, Gaza… will become Rafah and Beit Hanoun.”
The IDF has instructed aid groups to prepare for the evacuation of Gaza City’s one million residents to shelters in the south. The UN and Hamas-run health ministry have raised concerns about civilian casualties and the deepening humanitarian crisis. Since October 2023, at least 62,192 people have died in Gaza, according to local health authorities.