Israel demands release of all Gaza hostages, casting doubt on ceasefire proposal | BBC News

BBC NewsAbout 3 min readAug 20, 2025Watch original
THE SUMMARYAI-generated

Key Concepts

  • Military reservist call-up (60,000)
  • Planned ground offensive to capture Gaza City
  • Evacuation order for 1 million Palestinian residents to southern Gaza
  • Ceasefire proposal (60 days) agreed to by Hamas
  • Hostage release (10 living, 18 bodies) in exchange for Palestinian prisoners (1500)
  • Increased humanitarian aid (food and medicine) to Gaza
  • Israeli cabinet approval of military plans
  • House demolitions in Zetun neighborhood
  • "Partial deal" rejection by Israel
  • International condemnation vs. US (Trump) support
  • Humanitarian crisis in Gaza

Military Operation and Evacuation

Israeli media reports that approximately 60,000 military reservists will be called up in the coming weeks. This is in preparation for a planned ground offensive aimed at capturing all of Gaza City. A significant aspect of this plan involves ordering an estimated one million Palestinian residents to evacuate to southern Gaza once new shelters are established there. This evacuation order is a source of major concern for the residents, who have previously experienced similar displacement during past Israeli operations.

Ceasefire Proposal and Israeli Response

Hamas has agreed to a new Egyptian ceasefire proposal. The proposal outlines a 60-day ceasefire in exchange for Hamas releasing 10 living Israeli hostages and approximately 18 bodies. In return, Israel would release around 1500 Palestinian prisoners and allow increased amounts of food and medicine into Gaza. However, Israel has not given a formal response to this proposal. Israeli officials have reiterated that the country will no longer accept a "partial deal," implying dissatisfaction with the current terms of the proposed agreement.

Ground Situation in Gaza City

Gaza City, the largest city in the Gaza Strip, is currently housing approximately one million people. This includes not only original residents but also individuals displaced from the north, east, and south of Gaza. The population is concentrated in a small area in the western part of the city. Intense Israeli bombardment and house demolitions, particularly in the Zetun neighborhood, have led to further displacement within the city, with some residents reportedly trapped.

Political and International Pressure

The Israeli military chief of staff is expected to seek cabinet approval for the military plans. While Israel aims to demonstrate its commitment to conquering Gaza City, there are mixed signals regarding the ceasefire proposal. Israel is reportedly reviewing the proposal, with the White House also involved in ongoing discussions. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces pressure from the international community, with many of Israel's Western allies condemning the planned offensive due to concerns about deepening the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. However, Israel's closest ally, the United States, particularly under Donald Trump, has seemingly offered tacit approval for Israel's plans to exert more pressure on Hamas.

"Partial Deal" Controversy

The core of the disagreement lies in what Israel considers a "partial deal." The current proposal aims to bring back only half of the remaining living hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners during the 60-day ceasefire. Israel appears to be seeking a more comprehensive agreement that addresses the release of all hostages.

Conclusion

The situation is highly volatile, with a planned Israeli ground offensive looming over Gaza City. The potential for a humanitarian crisis is significant, given the large number of displaced people and the ongoing bombardment. While a ceasefire proposal is on the table, Israel's rejection of a "partial deal" and the mixed signals from Israeli officials create uncertainty about the future. International pressure is mounting, but the level of support from key allies like the United States remains a critical factor in shaping Israel's actions.

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