Israel’s Defence Minister Israel Katz has issued a stark warning that Gaza City could be destroyed if Hamas refuses to meet Israel’s conditions for ending the war.
What Happened
In an alarming statement on X on Friday, Israel’s Defence Minister Israel Katz warned that Gaza City would face destruction if Hamas does not agree to Israel’s terms for halting the ongoing war. This comes after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s announcement that he would approve the occupation of Gaza City while also starting negotiations with Hamas under conditions favorable to Israel. These developments follow a ceasefire proposal from mediators in Egypt and Qatar, which Hamas had previously agreed to. However, Israel has not indicated any intention to slow down its military offensive, even as talks continue.
Who Is Involved
- Israel Katz: Israel’s Defence Minister who issued the warning about Gaza City’s potential destruction.
- Benjamin Netanyahu: Israeli Prime Minister, who announced plans to occupy Gaza City and proceed with negotiations with Hamas.
- Hamas: The militant group in Gaza, with whom Israel is negotiating on terms for a ceasefire and the release of hostages.
- Egypt and Qatar: Mediators involved in the ceasefire negotiations.
- Palestinian Protestors: Protesters in Gaza and Israel demanding an end to the conflict and the return of hostages.
Background or Timeline
- October 2023: The Israel-Hamas war began when Hamas-led militants attacked southern Israel, killing approximately 1,200 people and taking hostages.
- August 2025: Israel intensified its military offensive, particularly targeting Gaza City. Despite an initial ceasefire proposal from Hamas and mediators, Israel continues its operations in Gaza, particularly in the Zeitoun and Jabaliya neighborhoods.
- July 2025: Israel approved an illegal settlement project in the occupied West Bank, further complicating peace prospects with Palestinians.
Public or Social Media Reaction
Protests have erupted in both Gaza and Israel, with demonstrators voicing concerns over the continuing violence and the potential dangers to the remaining hostages. Israeli protests call for the return of hostages, while Palestinians in Gaza and refugees displaced by the fighting demand an end to the war and a halt to Israel’s plans for mass relocation. Human rights organizations have condemned Israel’s continued actions, with many warning of a deepening humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Official Statement or What Happens Next
In his statement, Netanyahu emphasized that Israel would only proceed with a ceasefire on its terms. Meanwhile, international reactions have largely been critical of Israel’s expansion of the military offensive, except for the United States, which has supported Israel’s actions. The situation remains dire, with the Israeli military continuing its airstrikes, and at least 62,192 Palestinians reported dead since the war began.
Humanitarian concerns continue to grow, especially with most of Gaza’s residents displaced and living in precarious conditions. International organizations have raised alarms about the looming famine in the region and the continuous destruction of civilian infrastructure.
Closing
As the conflict drags on, international pressure mounts for both sides to return to the negotiating table and find a peaceful resolution to the ongoing violence. This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
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