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Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz issued a stark warning to Hamas, threatening to turn Gaza City into ruins unless the militant group agrees to Israel’s conditions for ending the war. This includes the release of all hostages and dismantling of weapons.
On August 21, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu approved an offensive by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) into Gaza City. The IDF is preparing to take full control of the Gaza Strip, which Katz described in a post on X as “the gates of hell opening upon Hamas murderers and rapists.”
Gaza City, located in northern Gaza, has been devastated over the past 22 months by Israeli military strikes. At least 50,000 reservists are to be called up for the operation, bringing total troop strength to 120,000.
Hamas’ capital is also atop what Israel believes is an extensive tunnel network and houses hundreds of thousands of civilians, critical infrastructure, and health facilities. The IDF plan focuses on “terror infrastructure,” particularly tunnels, and securing hostage releases.
On August 21, Hamas agreed to a ceasefire proposal from Arab mediators, which could forestall the offensive if accepted by Israel. However, similar announcements in the past did not lead to ceasefires.
Gaza City is Hamas’ military and governing stronghold. Katz’s warning reflects the intensity of the conflict and the potential for further destruction if Hamas does not comply with Israeli demands.
IDF soldiers prepare tanks near the northern borders of the Gaza Strip as part of their pre-offensive preparations. Diplomatic tensions across the Middle East are expected to rise due to this situation.
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