Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited the Gaza Division today, August 21st, to approve operational plans for taking over Gaza City and defeating Hamas. He also ordered the immediate start of negotiations for the release of all hostages, stating that hostage release and defeating Hamas go hand in hand. "We are at the decision phase," Netanyahu stated, "I came to Gaza today to approve the programs that the IDF presented to me and before the Defense Minister to take over the Gaza city and the Hamas decision." The IDF confirmed that "Phase 2 of Operation Gideon’s Chariots in Gaza is underway," with initial military operations having started and Israeli forces already operating on the outskirts of Gaza City. The IDF Spokesman also announced that alert calls have begun with medical officials in northern Gaza, signaling preparations for a planned offensive, with initial warnings issued to medical authorities and international organizations. The Coordination and Liaison Administration to Gaza contacted medical officials and aid groups to facilitate civilian evacuation from Gaza City to the southern Gaza Strip. In parallel with the military operations, Prime Minister Netanyahu instructed "to start instant negotiations for the release of all our hostages and the end of the war under conditions that are acceptable to Israel." This indicates that the dual objectives of military action against Hamas and hostage release are being pursued concurrently. The political echelon has also approved the repair of two water lines to the southern Gaza Strip from Israel, which will complement a water line being built from Egypt, as part of preparations for the evacuation of Gaza City. The IDF also addressed inaccuracies in reported figures regarding eliminated terrorists, stating that "the figures presented in the article are incorrect and do not reflect the data available in the IDF’s systems." The military emphasized its professional operations and dismissed claims as reflecting a "fundamental lack of military understanding." Separately, a rocket was launched from an area near Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis earlier today toward a corridor designated for humanitarian aid, according to the IDF. The rocket struck approximately 300 meters from the route, with no injuries reported. In other developments, the IDF Chief of Staff met with soldiers in Khan Yunis, commending their actions. He also noted progress in efforts to operate in Gaza City, with forces already on the outskirts. There are also reports of Hamas re-excavating tunnels in Gaza City. In a political development, Benny Gantz's party has signaled a potential willingness to join the governing coalition if the Prime Minister's far-right allies leave due to disagreements over a Gaza deal, according to The Times of Israel. Recordings attributed to Gantz suggest he is considering rejoining the government. The IDF also reported foiling an attempt to smuggle weapons into Israel from Egypt via a drone last night, seizing six rifles and ten handguns. There were also reports of two American ultra-Orthodox individuals arrested for allegedly filming a security facility.
