Israeli Defense Minister Yisrael Katz threatened Gaza’s total destruction unless Hamas releases hostages and disarms, warning the enclave could become “a monument to aggressors.”
Israeli Defense Minister Yisrael Katz said on Wednesday that 25 high-rise buildings had been destroyed since the launch of Israel’s ground operation in Gaza. He claimed the demolitions were aimed at removing sniper threats and again urged residents to move to southern Gaza for safety.
Katz warned that Gaza would be “reduced to ruins” if Hamas refused to release hostages and disarm, describing the enclave as destined to become “a monument to the aggressors and killers of Hamas.”
Health officials in Gaza reported at least 63 deaths from Israeli strikes on Wednesday, including 13 people killed while evacuating the city, among them local journalist Mohammed Ala Swalhi. The overall Palestinian death toll in the two-year conflict has now surpassed 65,000.
The Gaza Health Ministry said five more civilians were shot dead near an aid distribution center in Rafah, while dozens were wounded. Israeli forces said their troops fired warning shots in response to an “immediate threat.”
Despite opening evacuation corridors, Israel acknowledged that hundreds of thousands remain in Gaza City. Many residents refuse to leave due to fears of permanent displacement, lack of food in the south, and dangers along evacuation routes.
The United Nations, humanitarian agencies, and foreign governments have condemned Israel’s escalating offensive and mass displacement. A UN inquiry commission went further, accusing Israel of committing genocide in Gaza.
Israel has rejected the genocide allegation as “false and shameful,” but continues heavy bombardment and ground operations while ignoring repeated international appeals for a ceasefire and civilian protection.
