Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has shifted Gaza ceasefire efforts towards a comprehensive deal for the release of all remaining hostages simultaneously. Earlier plans suggested a 60-day truce and partial hostage release. Hamas leaders are in Cairo for talks with Egyptian officials. Mediators are optimistic about reaching a deal in the coming weeks.
Last month, indirect negotiations between Israel and Hamas collapsed, prompting Israel to announce plans to expand its military offensive in Gaza, covering areas sheltering the majority of its two million Palestinian residents. However, Israeli media reports indicate the new operation may not start until October, allowing time for reservist mobilization and military planning.
In parallel, intense Israeli airstrikes continue in Gaza, with the Hamas-run health ministry reporting at least 123 Palestinian fatalities in the last day. Witnesses report increased attacks on Gaza City, particularly airstrikes destroying homes. Explosions and demolitions were observed in the Zaytoun area. Al-Shifa Hospital reported the deaths of seven family members, including five children, in Tel al-Hawa, while Al-Ahli Hospital confirmed ten fatalities in Zaytoun. The Israeli military launched new operations in Zaytoun, with Lt Gen Eyal Zamir approving the IDF’s operational plan in Gaza.
Interviewed by i24News, Netanyahu dismissed the possibility of a partial ceasefire, emphasizing efforts for the release of all hostages, both living and dead. Palestinian groups hold 50 hostages from the Hamas-led attack on October 7, 2023, which sparked the conflict. Israel believes around 20 are alive and faces domestic pressure to secure their release and halt war expansions. Arab officials suggest a framework involving simultaneous hostage release for war cessation and Israeli troop withdrawal. However, rapid implementation is unlikely, as Israel demands Hamas relinquish control of Gaza and disarm. Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty confirmed ongoing mediation efforts with Qatar and the US for a return to a phased plan, including a 60-day ceasefire, hostage and prisoner release, and unimpeded aid into Gaza.
Netanyahu insists Israel’s objectives remain: war ends with all hostages’ return and Hamas’s surrender. He suggests Israel must maintain indefinite security control over Gaza. Netanyahu reiterated support for voluntary Palestinian emigration, stating they aren’t forced out but may leave. He urged other nations to open their borders instead of criticizing Israel. Palestinians and international organizations warn that forced displacement from Gaza breaches international law. Fears of a repeat “Nakba” persist among Gazans, descendants of those who fled or were expelled in 1948. UN-backed experts warn of a potential famine in Gaza due to severe restrictions on aid by Israel. The World Food Programme notes rising starvation and malnutrition rates. Hamas’s 2023 attack resulted in 1,200 Israeli deaths and 251 hostages taken into Gaza. Israel’s counter-offensive reportedly caused over 61,722 Palestinian deaths, including 106 children due to malnutrition.