Israel is set to initiate a full-scale military operation in Gaza City by mid-September 2023. This offensive comes shortly after more than 60,000 army reservists report for duty on September 2. In preparation for this action, authorities plan to order the evacuation of approximately 1 million Palestinians currently residing in Gaza City, according to Channel 12, as reported by the Times of Israel.
The mission aims to dismantle the Hamas leadership and secure the release of hostages held by the group. Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Katz has issued stark warnings, declaring that if Hamas does not comply with Israel’s cease-fire conditions, “the gates of hell” will open on Gaza City. Katz stated on X that the offensive would continue until Hamas agrees to Israel’s terms, primarily focused on the release of all hostages and the disarmament of the group.
Currently, an estimated 50 Israelis remain in Hamas captivity, with about 30 individuals presumed dead and approximately 20 believed to be alive. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other senior officials are urging for a swift military response, deeming the situation of the hostages increasingly dire.
Despite the urgency expressed by government officials, the Israeli military is advocating for a strategy that prioritizes civilian evacuations in Gaza City and seeks international legitimacy for the planned operation.
Negotiations for a potential cease-fire are ongoing, with Hamas indicating this week that it has accepted a partial deal to release 10 living hostages and the bodies of 18 others in exchange for a 60-day truce. However, Netanyahu has made it clear that the release of all remaining hostages is non-negotiable in any agreement to end hostilities.
In the coming days, Israel plans to send negotiators to resume discussions about the hostages and a possible cease-fire. These talks are expected to take place outside Doha, Qatar, or Cairo, Egypt, following the withdrawal of US and Israeli teams from Doha last month. Israeli officials believe that the impending military operation will heighten pressure on Hamas, potentially making them more amenable to negotiations.
As these developments unfold, thousands of Israelis have been protesting in Tel Aviv, demanding that the Netanyahu government reach an agreement to free the hostages. Liran Berman, whose brothers were abducted by Hamas, articulated concerns that escalating military actions could further jeopardize the lives of both hostages and civilians. “Expanding the fighting only puts them and all the hostages at even greater risk,” Berman stated. He emphasized the urgency of seizing the current opportunity to preserve lives and bring the captives home, warning that “deals do not last forever.”
The situation remains fluid, with both military and diplomatic efforts continuing to evolve in response to the ongoing crisis.
