Intensification of Israeli Siege and Hamas's Response to Trump's Peace Proposal

Tue Oct 21 2025 07:12:04 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

As Israel tightens its military grip around Gaza City, Hamas engages in deliberations regarding the newly proposed peace plan by former President Trump, heightening tensions amidst ongoing violence.

Israel's Defense Minister has announced an intensification of the siege around Gaza City, issuing a final evacuation warning to residents amidst escalating military efforts. With at least 45 fatalities reported due to Israeli fire on Wednesday, hospitals face dire conditions as humanitarian operations are suspended. The military action coincides with Hamas's consideration of a contentious peace plan put forth by former President Trump, which is likely to be rejected according to Hamas officials. This development raises significant concerns over the humanitarian crisis unfolding in the city, described as Hamas's last stronghold.

Israel's defence minister has stated that its forces are 'tightening the siege' around Gaza City by extending control over a military corridor towards the coast.

Isael Katz has issued a final warning to Palestinians in the city, urging them to evacuate southwards, asserting that staying would mean siding with 'terrorists and supporters of terror'.

Recent reports indicate that Israeli attacks have resulted in the deaths of at least 45 individuals in Gaza City, while the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) announced a suspension of its operations in the region due to safety concerns.

The intensification of Israeli military operations coincides with Hamas evaluating Trump's new peace plan. Mediators from Arab nations and Turkey are reportedly urging a positive response from Hamas, although a senior official indicated that the group is mostly likely to reject the proposal.

The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) regard Gaza City as a stronghold for Hamas, stating that their current offensive aims not only to secure the release of hostages but to achieve a decisive victory over the group.

Katz further informed that the IDF is in the process of tightening the military corridor leading to the coast, making it mandatory for anyone leaving Gaza City to pass through IDF checkpoints.

He reiterated that the current situation presents the last opportunity for residents wishing to escape the conflict while isolating Hamas in Gaza City. He warned that individuals remaining would be labeled as terrorists.

The ICRC emphasized the importance of civilian protection under international humanitarian law, regardless of whether they choose to stay or leave the city. The organization again highlighted Israel's obligation to meet basic needs of civilians and facilitate humanitarian aid.

Suspension of ICRC actions has led to fears of worsening humanitarian conditions as the military escalation continues. Over 45 individuals injured during recent strikes on al-Ahli hospital have been reported, while the conditions for rescue workers remain perilous with claims of direct targeting reported by Hamas.

With the ongoing conflict, the humanitarian situation in Gaza remains critical.