Israel‘s Defense Minister Israel Katz has issued a stern warning to Hamas, stating that “the gates of hell will soon open on the heads of Hamas’ murderers and rapists in Gaza” unless they agree to Israel’s conditions for ending the war.
These conditions include the release of all hostages and Hamas’ complete disarmament. Katz’s warning comes after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu approved military action in Gaza City, with the Israeli military preparing to seize the city.
The situation is critical, with at least 36 Palestinians killed in Israeli strikes across Gaza, and humanitarian organizations warning of an impending humanitarian crisis.
The Israeli military has intensified its attacks on Gaza City, resulting in at least 60 Palestinian fatalities since dawn, according to medical sources.
The escalation comes as Israel prepares for a broader planned offensive in the city. In one notable incident, an Israeli airstrike targeted a school in the Sheikh Radwan neighborhood, where displaced Palestinians had set up makeshift tents.
This attack alone claimed the lives of 12 civilians, as reported by Gaza’s Ministry of Health.
Despite the ongoing violence, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has instructed officials to begin immediate negotiations for a ceasefire and the release of remaining captives.
Yet, Netanyahu has also authorized a major military operation to seize Gaza City, which could commence within days.
This development has sparked concern among Israelis who fear that the assault might endanger the lives of approximately 20 captives believed to be alive.
The humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate, with reports of widespread destruction, mass displacement, and an imminent famine.
Tareq Abu Azzoum described the situation on the ground, saying, “It was another deadly night in Gaza, and this morning is marked by grief and unbearable pain, clearly written on the faces of victims’ relatives and emergency responders who spent the night rushing to calls across the Strip.”
Abu Azzoum emphasized that Israeli military actions signal to Palestinians that “no matter where they move, no corner of Gaza is spared from any potential Israeli attack.”
The number of civilian casualties in Gaza has raised alarm internationally. According to figures from a leaked Israeli military database, 83% of Palestinians killed in Gaza are civilians.
The United Nations has also declared famine in Gaza, citing 22 months of Israeli war on the Palestinian territory as the cause. UN Secretary-General António Guterres has described Israel’s planned expansion of military operations in Gaza as a “dangerous escalation”.
As the conflict continues, concerns about the humanitarian crisis and the impact on civilians have grown. The situation remains volatile, with both sides showing little sign of backing down.
The international community urges a peaceful resolution to the conflict, emphasizing the need for a two-state solution and warning against further escalation.