Shaji Karackal
New York: Israel Defense Force started a new operation with the stated goal of taking full control of Gaza and the remaining hostages dead or alive who were in hamas captivity since October 7th 2023.
The situation in Gaza remains volatile, with no finalized peace agreement as of August 21, 2025. Here’s a concise update based on the latest developments:IDF Operations: The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) are intensifying efforts in Gaza, particularly targeting Gaza City, with the goal of dismantling Hamas’s remaining strongholds. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has framed this as a mission to “free Gaza from Hamas,” not to occupy it, aiming for demilitarization and a non-Hamas, non-Palestinian Authority civilian administration. The IDF reports operational control over ~75% of Gaza, having struck Hamas infrastructure and eliminated key figures like Nasser Musa, a Hamas commander in Rafah, and others involved in the October 7, 2023, attacks.
Netanyahu’s Position: Netanyahu has rejected ceasefire proposals that don’t meet Israel’s demands, including Hamas’s disarmament, leadership exile, and full hostage release. He insists on maintaining security control, particularly over strategic corridors like Morag and Philadelphi, and has authorized plans to occupy Gaza City, drawing international criticism.
Ceasefire Talks: Egypt and Qatar, with U.S. involvement via envoy Steve Witkoff, are mediating talks in Doha for a potential 60-day truce, including phased hostage releases, partial IDF withdrawal, and increased aid. Hamas has shown some willingness to negotiate but demands a permanent ceasefire and full Israeli withdrawal, causing repeated stalemates. In July 2025, talks collapsed after Hamas’s response was deemed “unacceptable,” prompting Israel and the U.S. to temporarily withdraw negotiators. Recent reports suggest renewed discussions, but no deal is confirmed.
Hamas’s Stance: Hamas has agreed to partial hostage releases but insists on guarantees for a permanent end to the war and unrestricted aid. The group condemns Israel’s Gaza City plan as a “war crime” and vows fierce resistance, though internal divisions complicate its position.
Egypt and Qatar’s Efforts: Egypt is facilitating Rafah crossing reopenings for medical evacuations, while Qatar hosts indirect talks. Both mediators push for a comprehensive deal, but gaps remain over IDF redeployment and prisoner swaps.
Hostages: Of the 251 hostages taken on October 7, 2023, ~49 remain, with up to 20 believed alive. Recent releases, like U.S.-Israeli Keith Siegel, occurred under partial deals, but negotiations for the rest are stalled. Families and Israeli opposition leaders criticize Netanyahu’s escalation, fearing it endangers hostages
