Israel Intensifies Gaza City Assault Amid Hostage Crisis

Israel has escalated airstrikes on Gaza City, warning Hamas that the enclave will be destroyed unless all hostages are released and the group surrenders, following U.S. President Donald Trump's demand. Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz described the assault as a “mighty hurricane,” emphasizing it as a final warning to Hamas, while Israeli forces continue to pound multiple districts and detonate explosives to target militants. Hamas remains committed to releasing hostages only after a clear announcement ending the war and Israeli withdrawal, while a U.S. ceasefire proposal demands hostage release on the first day of ceasefire talks. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar echoed that the conflict could end if hostages are freed and Hamas disarms. Recently, Hamas released a video featuring two Israeli hostages held in Gaza City, underscoring the ongoing hostage crisis amid Israel’s intensified military campaign, which now controls about 75% of Gaza and 40% of Gaza City. The humanitarian situation remains dire as airstrikes continue, with residents displaced and infrastructure heavily damaged.