Israel is set to initiate a military takeover of Gaza City in mid-September 2023, following the mobilization of over 60,000 army reservists. This operation aims to dismantle Hamas and secure the release of hostages held in Gaza. According to the Times of Israel, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) plan to commence this offensive two weeks after the reservists report for duty on September 2, 2023.
In preparation for the anticipated military action, approximately 1 million Palestinians currently residing in Gaza City will be ordered to evacuate as early as this Sunday, according to Channel 12 network. These developments come amid escalating tensions and a humanitarian crisis in the region.
Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Katz recently issued a stark warning, stating that “gates of hell” would open for Gaza City unless Hamas agrees to Israel’s cease-fire conditions. Katz emphasized that the Israeli government is determined to confront the group, stating, “Soon, the gates of hell will open upon the heads of Hamas’s murderers and rapists in Gaza – until they agree to Israel’s conditions for ending the war, primarily the release of all hostages and their disarmament.”
As of now, an estimated 50 Israelis remain in Hamas captivity. Of these, around 30 are presumed dead, while 20 are believed to be alive. The urgency surrounding their situation has prompted Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other senior officials to accelerate military plans, viewing the hostages’ conditions as increasingly critical.
Negotiations for a cease-fire are also underway. Earlier this week, Hamas communicated to mediators its willingness to accept a partial cease-fire that would allow for the release of 10 living hostages and the bodies of 18 others in exchange for a 60-day truce. However, Netanyahu insists that any resolution must include the release of all remaining hostages.
Plans for renewed negotiations are reportedly in the works, with Israeli officials considering locations outside of Doha, Qatar, or Cairo, Egypt. This decision follows the withdrawal of U.S. and Israeli teams from Doha last month. Israeli officials believe that the impending military operation in Gaza City may exert pressure on Hamas, potentially leading to more favorable negotiation outcomes.
In Tel Aviv, thousands of Israelis gathered in protest on Saturday, calling for a negotiation to secure the release of hostages. Many participants expressed concern that escalating military action could jeopardize the safety of those still in captivity. Liran Berman, whose brothers were abducted by Hamas, stated, “Expanding the fighting only puts them and all the hostages at even greater risk. There is a deal on the table. But deals do not last forever; their windows close fast and hard. This may be the last chance to save lives and to bring the fallen back.”
The situation remains fluid as Israel navigates complex military, political, and humanitarian challenges in its ongoing conflict with Hamas. The coming weeks will be critical as the IDF prepares for its operation while simultaneously engaging in diplomatic efforts to secure the release of hostages.