Israel has issued a stark warning regarding the potential complete destruction of Gaza City if Hamas does not meet critical ceasefire demands, including the release of hostages and complete disarmament. This ultimatum coincides with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's directive to prepare for a significant ground offensive targeting Gaza City, a pivotal stronghold for Hamas.
The escalating situation unfolds against a backdrop of a worsening humanitarian crisis and mounting international criticism. Israel's Defense Minister Israel Katz stated that Gaza City could be "destroyed" unless Hamas yields to Israel's terms, warning that "the gates of hell will soon open" on Hamas militants. This declaration follows Prime Minister Netanyahu's order to ready for a major ground operation aimed at capturing the city, which could commence within days.
The humanitarian conditions within Gaza have dramatically deteriorated, with widespread reports of famine and intensified conflict. An Israeli airstrike on August 21, 2025, claimed the lives of five civilians at the Asmaa School in the al-Shati refugee camp, west of Gaza. The Gaza Health Ministry reports that over 62,122 Palestinians have been killed since the conflict began following the October 7, 2023, attack, with 156,758 injured.
Prime Minister Netanyahu has mandated immediate negotiations for a ceasefire and the return of hostages, while simultaneously confirming plans for a substantial operation to seize Gaza City. The United Nations estimates that Israel's planned takeover of Gaza City could lead to the displacement of over a million people, exacerbating the already severe humanitarian crisis. Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) has accused Israel of deliberately withholding water from Gaza's population as part of a "genocidal campaign," urging the allowance of essential water supply equipment and infrastructure repairs.
Protests within Israel have intensified, with demonstrators demanding an immediate cessation of the Gaza war, a ceasefire, and governmental pressure to negotiate a hostage deal. A nationwide strike on August 17, 2025, saw hundreds of thousands of Israelis take to the streets, blocking roads and closing businesses to voice their frustration.
Internationally, the escalating conflict and potential military actions in a densely populated urban area have drawn significant concern. The United Nations and the International Red Cross have warned of an impending catastrophe should Israel proceed with an offensive in Gaza City. Countries like the UK have summoned Israel's ambassador, joining over 20 nations in condemning settlement plans as a violation of international law. China has expressed serious concerns, urging an immediate cessation of dangerous actions, while Australia has warned that the plans would deepen the humanitarian disaster. The situation remains critical, with ongoing diplomatic efforts and humanitarian concerns shaping the international response.