Israel’s Defense Minister Israel Katz warned on social media that if Hamas refuses to end the war on Israeli terms—including the release and disarmament of all remaining hostages—Gaza City will be destroyed, citing a “hell‑opened” siege until the demands are met.
Minister’s Dramatic Warning
On social media, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz issued a stark threat that any refusal by Hamas to end the conflict on Israel’s conditions would result in the annihilation of Gaza City. He warned that “the gates of hell will open” for the murderers and rapists of the Hamas regime in Gaza until hostages are released and the group is disarmed. Katz added that if such measures are not taken, the capital of Hamas—Gaza—would transform into Rafah and Bait Hanun, a fate it experienced during earlier attacks.
Hamas’ 60‑Day Ceasefire Offer
Just days before the escalation, Hamas accepted a 60‑day ceasefire proposal brokered by Egyptian and Qatari mediators. The deal called for halting hostilities, releasing roughly half of about twenty living hostages held by Hamas, and allowing Hamas fighters and Palestinian Jihadists to surrender a handful of the same captives. Israel was expected to free Palestinian detainees in return. Following this, negotiations were scheduled to discuss a broader settlement guaranteeing sustained cessation of hostilities; however, Israel reportedly rejected the offer.
Israel’s Operation on Gaza City
On 20 August, Israel launched the first phase of its planned assault on Gaza City, killing at least 60 people, including 20 who died during attempts to secure humanitarian aid. Israeli Defense Forces had earlier mobilized tens of thousands of reservists for a major offensive. The Israeli government had announced an intention to capture the city early in September, a plan that included relocating nearly a million civilians. A spokesperson for the Israeli army confirmed control over the outskirts and reiterated that the forces “are not waiting” and have begun preliminary operations in the city.
Source: Gazeta,
