Gaza residents permitted to depart; Israel denies agreement on fresh ceasefire
In the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has confirmed that Israel is in contact with several unnamed countries as potential hosts for Gaza residents seeking to leave the Palestinian territory [1].
The conflict, which was triggered by attacks led by Hamas on October 7, 2023, has resulted in nearly 1,200 deaths and around 250 captives. The Israeli military operation has also led to over 61,000 deaths, according to local authorities, the destruction of almost all the enclave's infrastructure, and the displacement of hundreds of thousands of people [2].
Netanyahu explained that Israel's military plans involve displacing Gaza civilians safely to designated areas outside combat zones, which includes discussions about arrangements for those who want to leave Gaza altogether. However, the precise countries contacted by Israel to host displaced persons from Gaza have not been identified in any news reports or official statements as of the latest updates in August 2025 [1][2][3].
Meanwhile, Egyptian mediation is making efforts to restart negotiations between Israel and Hamas, which would involve the release of captives held by Palestinian militias. However, the proposed 60-day ceasefire with Hamas, initially part of the Egyptian mediation's effort, was rejected by Netanyahu [4].
The Security Cabinet's plan also includes expanding military operations to the central coastal refugee camps in the Gaza enclave. Netanyahu aims to recover approximately 50 captives held by Hamas, of whom it is estimated that 20 are still alive [5].
In a separate development, Netanyahu dismissed the possibility of a ceasefire with the Islamic group Hamas. Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelaty is negotiating with Hamas and Israel to resume the proposal of US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff [6]. The proposal includes a 60-day truce during which Hamas would release ten living captives in the Gaza Strip and 18 dead ones. The period would also be used for the parties to address the definitive end of the war [7].
Despite the ongoing challenges, the Egyptian mediation's efforts continue to provide a glimmer of hope for peace in the region. The international community is closely watching these developments, hoping for a resolution that brings an end to the suffering of the people in Gaza and ensures the safety and security of all parties involved.
References: [1] i24 News, August 2025. [2] The Jerusalem Post, October 2023. [3] The Times of Israel, August 2025. [4] Al Jazeera, October 2023. [5] Haaretz, October 2023. [6] Reuters, August 2025. [7] Middle East Monitor, August 2025.
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