Israel Warns of Gaza City Destruction Unless Hamas Disarms and Releases Hostages
Israel’s Defense Minister, Israel Katz, has issued a stern warning to Hamas, stating that Gaza City will face destruction if the group fails to disarm and release all hostages.
Katz’s ultimatum comes after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu approved plans for a massive assault on Gaza City, despite widespread international opposition.
The Israeli military has begun preparations for the evacuation of Gaza City’s one million residents, instructing medical officials and international organizations to prepare for the mass movement of civilians to southern shelters. However, Gaza’s Hamas-run health ministry has rejected any evacuation plan, warning it would cripple the already fragile health system.
Netanyahu has directed officials to begin immediate negotiations aimed at securing the release of hostages in Gaza and bringing the war to an end. He emphasized that defeating Hamas and releasing all hostages are intertwined objectives.
Katz reinforced this message, warning Hamas leaders would face “the gates of hell” unless they accept Israel’s conditions, primarily the release of all hostages and disarmament
The conflict between Israel and Hamas has resulted in significant humanitarian concerns, with the UN-backed Integrated Food Security Phase Classification warning last month that famine conditions are unfolding in Gaza.
The UN has raised alarm over the planned assault, citing high numbers of civilian casualties and large-scale destruction
The latest developments come after Hamas accepted a Qatari- and Egyptian-brokered ceasefire proposal, which includes a 60-day truce and staggered hostage releases. However, Israel has insisted on the release of all captives at once before halting military action.
The fate of Gaza City and its residents hangs in the balance as negotiations falter and the threat of destruction grows louder
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