Israel Warns of Major Offensive on Gaza City as Humanitarian Concerns Rise

Gaza City, Gaza Strip – Tensions escalated on Friday after Israel’s Defense Minister, Israel Katz, warned that Gaza’s largest city could face massive destruction if Hamas does not comply with Israel’s terms.

The warning came just a day after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced plans to authorize a large-scale military operation aimed at seizing control of Gaza City.

Israel’s Conditions for Ceasefire

In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), Katz said that Gaza City risked becoming another Rafah or Beit Hanoun—areas heavily damaged in earlier stages of the conflict.

He reiterated Israel’s conditions for ending the war:

• The release of all hostages held by Hamas.

• The complete disarmament of Hamas.

Hamas, however, has maintained that it would only consider releasing captives if the war is brought to an end, while rejecting disarmament without the establishment of a Palestinian state.

Humanitarian Crisis Deepens

Meanwhile, international organizations have raised alarm over the worsening humanitarian situation. The world’s leading authority on food crises has reported that Gaza City is already facing conditions of severe famine, largely due to ongoing fighting and the blockade.

Global Calls for Resolution

As both sides remain firm on their positions, global powers and humanitarian groups continue to call for an immediate de-escalation, stressing the urgent need to protect civilians and ensure food and medical aid reach those in need.