Israel Threatens Gaza City Destruction Amid Famine Declaration

Israel's Defense Minister, Israel Katz, has warned that Gaza City could face destruction unless Hamas releases all hostages and disarms. Katz stated that the Israeli government has approved plans to "defeat Hamas in Gaza," with military preparations underway for a new offensive targeting the city's largest population center. He emphasized that if Hamas does not comply, Gaza City "will become Rafah and Beit Hanoun," referencing areas previously devastated by Israeli military actions.

This warning coincides with the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) declaring a famine in Gaza City, marking the first such declaration in the Middle East. The IPC reports that over half a million people are experiencing catastrophic hunger, with the situation expected to worsen if hostilities continue and aid access remains restricted.

Israel has rejected the IPC's findings, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office calling the famine declaration an "outright lie." The Israeli government asserts that it has facilitated the entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza and denies allegations of obstructing assistance.

Hamas has responded to Katz's statements by accusing Israel of ethnic cleansing and has called for an immediate end to the conflict, as well as the lifting of restrictions on aid. The group demands that border crossings into Gaza be opened without restrictions to allow the urgent and continuous entry of food, medicine, water, and fuel.

As the situation escalates, international organizations and humanitarian agencies continue to express concern over the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza, urging all parties to prioritize the protection of civilians and ensure the delivery of essential aid.