sraeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that defeating Hamas and releasing all our hostages go hand in hand. (Reuters)
Netanyahu Orders Talks to End War, Free Hostages Amid Gaza Plan
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced a dual strategy. He plans to approve a military takeover of Gaza City. At the same time, he ordered immediate talks to free hostages and end the nearly two-year war. This news comes as tensions rise in the region. The announcement has sparked global reactions. Many are concerned about the humanitarian impact.
On Thursday, Netanyahu spoke in a video statement. He said, “I have come to approve the IF’s plans to take control of Gaza City and defeat Hamas.” Yet, he also stressed the need for negotiations. “At the same time, I have instructed to immediately begin negotiations for the release of all our hostages and the end of the war under conditions acceptable to Israel,” he added. These two goals—defeating Hamas and freeing hostages—are linked, he noted.
The Israeli military is preparing for a major offensive. The defense ministry has approved calling up 60,000 reservists. This move signals a large-scale operation named “Gideon’s Chariots.” Strikes have already intensified in Gaza City. A massive explosion was reported on the city’s northern outskirts. Plumes of smoke filled the sky. Military chief Eyal Zamir confirmed that troops are moving closer. “We already have troops operating on the outskirts of the city,” he told soldiers. More forces will join soon.
However, the plan has drawn sharp criticism. The United Nations warned of a “horrific humanitarian impact.” About one million Palestinians live in Gaza City. Many are displaced and exhausted. The Red Cross called Israel’s actions “intolerable.” Hamas condemned the takeover plan. They said it shows Israel’s “blatant disregard” for ceasefire efforts. The group accepted a ceasefire proposal earlier this week. It includes a staggered release of hostages. Israel, however, insists on freeing all hostages at once.
Families of hostages are worried. They fear the military push could endanger their loved ones. Of the 251 hostages taken on October 7, 2023, 50 remain in Gaza. Israel believes 20 are still alive. Protests erupted in Tel Aviv. Over 100,000 people demanded an end to the war. “This isn’t just a military decision. It could be a death sentence for the people we love,” said Lishay Miran Lavi, wife of a hostage. She urged for a ceasefire deal. Learn more about the protests on AMERICA NEWS WORLD.
International leaders also reacted strongly. Germany halted arms exports to Israel. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer called the plan “wrong.” He urged Israel to reconsider. The UN Security Council will meet soon to discuss the crisis. Despite the backlash, Netanyahu remains firm. He accused Germany of “rewarding Hamas terrorism.” Defense Minister Israel Katz said critics won’t weaken Israel’s resolve. Read the full statement on AMERICA NEWS WORLD.
The Gaza health ministry rejected Israel’s call to evacuate medical facilities. They warned it would cripple the health system. Over 61,000 Palestinians have died in the war, according to the ministry. The conflict began after Hamas’s attack on Israel in 2023. That attack killed 1,200 people and took 251 hostages. Most of Gaza’s two million residents are displaced. Famine warnings are growing. Aid groups struggle to deliver supplies. For more on the humanitarian crisis, visit AMERICA NEWS WORLD.
Ceasefire talks have hit roadblocks before. Last month, negotiations broke down. Hamas insists on a permanent end to the war. Israel wants Hamas disarmed and removed from power. Mediators from Egypt and Qatar are pushing for a deal. A proposed 60-day truce would free some hostages and allow aid into Gaza. Yet, Netanyahu’s focus on a full hostage release complicates matters. Follow updates on AMERICA NEWS WORLD.
The military buildup is clear. Satellite images show Israeli troops near Gaza’s border. The operation could take months. It may displace one million people. Critics warn of a “black hole” of insurgency. Former Prime Minister Ehud Olmert called the plan a mistake. He said it would cost lives and not save hostages. For expert analysis, check AMERICA NEWS WORLD.
Public opinion in Israel is divided. Polls show most Israelis want a ceasefire to free hostages. Far-right coalition members push for annexation. This puts pressure on Netanyahu. His government relies on their support. Meanwhile, Gaza residents face despair. “I don’t know where to go,” one told the BBC. Protests in Gaza City demanded an end to the war. Banners read, “Save Gaza, enough.” Stay informed at AMERICA NEWS WORLD.
For more details, read this Reuters article. The situation remains fluid. Netanyahu’s dual approach—military action and talks—has raised hopes and fears. Will it lead to peace or more conflict? Only time will tell.
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Data Snapshot: Gaza Conflict (as of August 2025)
Hostages Remaining: 50 (20 believed alive)
Palestinian Deaths: 61,000+ (Gaza Health Ministry)
Israeli Deaths (Oct 2023 Attack): 1,200
Displaced in Gaza: ~2 million
Reservists Called Up: 60,000
Gaza City Population: ~1 million