What's happened
As of late August 2025, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has approved a military plan to seize Gaza City, the last major Hamas stronghold, while simultaneously instructing immediate negotiations for the release of all hostages held by Hamas. The Israeli military is mobilizing 60,000 reservists and urging civilians and aid groups to evacuate northern Gaza. Hamas has agreed to a ceasefire proposal involving phased hostage releases, but Israel insists on a comprehensive deal for all hostages. The operation risks escalating humanitarian crises and civilian casualties amid widespread protests in Gaza and Israel.
What's behind the headline?
Strategic Shift and Risks
Israel's decision to proceed with a large-scale offensive in Gaza City marks a critical escalation in the conflict. While the military aims to dismantle Hamas's remaining stronghold and secure the release of hostages, this approach carries significant risks:
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Hostage Safety: Military leaders and hostage families warn that an assault on Gaza City could endanger the approximately 20 hostages believed alive there, as Hamas has threatened to kill captives if Israeli forces close in.
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Humanitarian Impact: The offensive will likely exacerbate an already dire humanitarian crisis, with famine conditions declared in parts of Gaza and mass displacement of civilians.
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Political Divisions: Within Israel, far-right coalition members push for a more aggressive approach, opposing partial deals and advocating for permanent control over Gaza. Conversely, opposition figures and hostage families urge negotiations to avoid further loss of life.
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International Pressure: Global actors, including Egypt, Qatar, and the UN, advocate for ceasefire talks and warn against the humanitarian fallout. The US supports Israel but also encourages negotiations.
Negotiations and Deal Dynamics
Hamas has accepted a phased ceasefire proposal involving the release of some hostages and prisoners, but Israel rejects partial deals, demanding the release of all hostages simultaneously and Hamas's disarmament. This impasse complicates prospects for a negotiated settlement.
Forecast
The coming weeks will be decisive. Israel's military buildup and evacuation orders signal imminent ground operations. If the offensive proceeds, it will likely intensify civilian suffering and complicate hostage negotiations. However, the pressure may also push Hamas toward a comprehensive deal. The balance between military action and diplomacy remains fragile, with profound implications for regional stability and humanitarian conditions.
What the papers say
The Times of Israel provides detailed coverage of Israel's internal debates and military plans, highlighting Prime Minister Netanyahu's approval of the Gaza City offensive alongside his call for immediate hostage negotiations. It reports on the government's rejection of partial hostage release deals and the mobilization of reservists, while also noting dissent within the Israeli coalition and military leadership, such as IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir's opposition due to risks to hostages.
The Independent emphasizes the humanitarian crisis, reporting on famine conditions in Gaza and the displacement of civilians amid the military buildup. It also covers the political tensions within Israel, including far-right coalition members opposing ceasefires and protests both in Israel and Gaza.
Al Jazeera offers a critical perspective on the military escalation, describing the offensive as a "death sentence" for Gaza's population and highlighting the suffering caused by Israeli actions, including starvation deaths and destruction of civilian shelters. It quotes analysts who characterize the negotiations as "negotiation under fire," underscoring the asymmetry of power and the humanitarian toll.
South China Morning Post and The New Arab provide additional context on the security cabinet's approval of the offensive, the call-up of reservists, and the international diplomatic efforts to revive ceasefire talks. They report on the divided Israeli political landscape, with figures like Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich criticizing Netanyahu's approach as insufficiently decisive.
Together, these sources illustrate a complex and evolving situation where military strategy, hostage diplomacy, internal political pressures, and humanitarian concerns intersect, shaping the trajectory of the conflict.
How we got here
The conflict began with Hamas's October 2023 attack on Israel, leading to a 22-month war. Israel has sought to defeat Hamas, secure the release of hostages, and prevent future threats from Gaza. Multiple ceasefire proposals, including phased hostage releases, have been negotiated but repeatedly stalled. Israel's recent strategy involves a military offensive to capture Gaza City, despite warnings about risks to hostages and civilians.
Go deeper
- What are the risks to hostages in the Gaza City offensive?
- How is the international community responding to the conflict escalation?
- What are the prospects for a comprehensive ceasefire deal?
Common question
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What is Israel's plan for a Gaza City offensive?
Israel is preparing for a significant ground operation in Gaza City, aiming to weaken Hamas and secure hostages. The plan could take several months and has sparked international debate about the risks and potential outcomes. Many are wondering what this offensive entails, how long it might last, and what the broader implications could be for the region and civilians caught in the conflict.
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Gaza Conflict: What’s Next in Israel’s Offensive?
As Israel prepares for a significant ground operation in Gaza, many are wondering what this means for the region and the world. With plans to potentially take up to five months, the conflict raises questions about the risks involved, international reactions, and what could happen next. Below, we explore the key concerns and provide clear answers to help you understand the current situation.
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How Are Countries Responding to the US-Mexico Cartel Transfers and Middle East Tensions?
Recent developments involving Mexico transferring cartel leaders to US custody and Israel's plans for a Gaza offensive have sparked global reactions. Countries worldwide are watching closely, with responses ranging from diplomatic statements to military preparations. Curious about how different nations are reacting and what this means for global stability? Below, we explore key questions about these major international events and their implications.
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What Are the Humanitarian Impacts of the Gaza Offensive and US-Mexico Drug War?
Recent developments in Gaza and Mexico highlight complex humanitarian challenges. As Israel prepares for a ground offensive in Gaza, civilians face increasing risks, while the US-Mexico drug war leads to the transfer of cartel leaders across borders. Curious about how these conflicts affect innocent lives and what efforts are underway to help? Below are key questions and answers to understand these critical issues.
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What’s Next for US-Mexico and Israel Conflicts?
Recent developments in the US-Mexico drug war and Israel's Gaza offensive have raised many questions about future actions and potential escalation. As Mexico transfers cartel leaders to US custody and Israel prepares for a prolonged ground operation, people are wondering what comes next. Here are some of the most common questions and what they mean for the global situation.
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How Do Today’s Major News Stories Impact Global Security and Politics?
Recent developments such as Mexico transferring cartel leaders to the US and Israel preparing for a Gaza City offensive have significant implications beyond their immediate contexts. These events influence international security, economic stability, and diplomatic relations worldwide. Understanding how these stories connect to broader geopolitical issues can help you grasp the potential consequences and what they mean for everyday life. Below, we explore key questions about these crises and their global impact.
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What is Israel's latest plan in Gaza?
Israel has recently approved a new military operation targeting Gaza City, aiming to defeat Hamas and free hostages. This move marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict, raising questions about the potential outcomes and risks involved. Many are wondering what Israel's next steps are, how this might impact the broader region, and what the international community's response might be. Below, we explore the key details and answer common questions about the current Gaza conflict and Israel's military plans.
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What Are the Latest Signs of Political Unrest Worldwide?
Global political tensions are rising, with conflicts and crackdowns making headlines across the world. From military operations to activist exile, understanding these developments helps us grasp the broader picture of international stability. Below, we explore key questions about current political unrest and its implications for human rights.
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How Are Countries Responding to the Middle East & Asia Crises?
The ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and tensions in Hong Kong have prompted varied international responses. Countries are taking different diplomatic, military, and asylum actions, reflecting their interests and values. Curious about how nations are reacting, what diplomatic efforts are underway, and the role of global powers? Below are the key questions and answers to help you understand the current global landscape.
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Why Is Israel Pushing Into Gaza Now?
The recent escalation in Gaza has raised many questions about Israel's military actions and the broader conflict. Understanding why Israel is advancing into Gaza now involves looking at recent military developments, political pressures, and ongoing negotiations. Below, we explore the key reasons behind this move and what it could mean for the region.
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What’s the Current Status of the Gaza Offensive?
The situation in Gaza remains highly volatile as Israel pushes forward with its military operations amid ongoing negotiations. Many are wondering what the latest developments are, whether civilians are safe, and what international mediators are doing to help. Here are the key questions and answers to understand the current crisis.
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Who Are the Main Parties in the Gaza Conflict?
The Gaza conflict involves several key players, including Israel, Hamas, and international mediators. Understanding who is involved helps clarify the complex situation on the ground and the potential outcomes. Curious about the main parties and their roles? Keep reading to get a clear picture of this ongoing crisis.
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What’s the Latest on the Gaza Conflict and Humanitarian Crisis?
The situation in Gaza is rapidly evolving, with military actions, political negotiations, and worsening humanitarian conditions. Many people are asking what’s happening right now, why certain military decisions are being made, and how the crisis is affecting civilians. Below, we answer some of the most common questions about the current state of Gaza, the ongoing conflict, and the humanitarian emergency unfolding there.
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Will Israel's Gaza Operation Escalate Further?
The recent approval of a major military offensive by Israel in Gaza has raised concerns about the potential for further escalation. With Israeli forces mobilizing tens of thousands of reservists and Hamas responding with tentative ceasefire talks, many are wondering what comes next. Will the conflict intensify, or are there signs of de-escalation? Below, we explore the key questions surrounding this volatile situation.
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How are countries and the US responding to the Gaza crisis and detention issues?
The ongoing conflict in Gaza and recent legal actions in the US have sparked widespread reactions worldwide. Countries are responding with military, diplomatic, and humanitarian measures, while the US faces legal challenges over detention facilities. Curious about how these events are unfolding globally and domestically? Below, we answer key questions about the international responses, US legal actions, protests, and political implications.
More on these topics
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Benjamin Netanyahu is an Israeli politician serving as Prime Minister of Israel since 2009, and previously from 1996 to 1999. Netanyahu is also the Chairman of the Likud – National Liberal Movement.
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Hamas is a Palestinian Sunni-Islamic fundamentalist militant organization. It has a social service wing, Dawah, and a military wing, the Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades.
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Gaza City, often simply called Gaza, is a city in the Gaza Strip, Palestine, and the capital of the Gaza Governorate. Located on the Mediterranean coast, 76.6 kilometres (47.6 mi) southwest of Jerusalem, it was home to Palestine's only port. With a popula
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Israel, formally known as the State of Israel, is a country in Western Asia, located on the southeastern shore of the Mediterranean Sea and the northern shore of the Red Sea.
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The Israel Defense Forces, commonly known in Israel by the Hebrew acronym Tzahal, are the military forces of the State of Israel. They consist of the ground forces, air force, and navy. It is the sole military wing of the Israeli security forces, and has
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Bezalel Yoel Smotrich is an Israeli politician. The leader of Tkuma, he is currently a member of the Knesset for the Yamina alliance.
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Egypt, officially the Arab Republic of Egypt, is a transcontinental country spanning the northeast corner of Africa and southwest corner of Asia by a land bridge formed by the Sinai Peninsula.
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Qatar, officially the State of Qatar, is a country located in Western Asia, occupying the small Qatar Peninsula on the northeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula.
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Gaza most commonly refers to:
Gaza Strip, a Palestinian territory on the eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea
Gaza City, a city in the Gaza Strip
Gaza may also refer to:
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The Gaza Strip, or simply Gaza, is a self-governing Palestinian territory on the eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea, that borders Egypt on the southwest for 11 kilometers and Israel on the east and north along a 51 km border.
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Eyal Zamir is a major general in Israel Defense Forces. He was the Deputy Chief of the General Staff from December 2018 and was replaced by Herzi Halevi in July 2021.