Israel Warns Hamas: Any Hostage Taken Will Lead to Gaza City Evacuation

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz issued a stark warning to Hamas on Tuesday, stating that if a soldier or civilian is abducted, the entire city of Gaza will be evacuated.

Speaking at a state memorial ceremony for fallen soldiers of the Yom Kippur War, Katz declared that Israel would not retreat from its current positions in Gaza until Hamas is removed and the Strip is demilitarized. He emphasized that Israel has already taken preemptive actions against Iran, neutralizing a nuclear threat and eliminating Qassem Soleimani, and warned that further strikes would occur if necessary to bring down the Iranian regime.

Katz drew parallels between the current conflict and the Yom Kippur War 53 years ago, asserting that those who seek Israel's destruction will fail, just as they did in 1973. He detailed Israel's military strategy, which involves establishing fortified security zones along its borders with Lebanon, Syria, and Gaza, clearing them of residents, and destroying terrorist infrastructure. He cited the operations in Rafah, Khan Younis, and 70% of Gaza as examples of this approach.

"This is the language that jihadist terrorist organizations in Gaza and Lebanon understand: population evacuation, destruction of infrastructure, and taking territory," Katz stated, referencing past operations like "Gideon's Chariots B" as a model for future actions. He concluded by honoring the fallen soldiers, stating their bravery ensures Israel's continued existence and security.