Wed Aug 20 07:37:49 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and a news article based on the provided text, written with an Indian perspective in mind:

**Summary:**

Tensions remain high in the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Israel’s Defence Minister has approved a plan to conquer Gaza City, mobilizing 60,000 reservists. This move comes amidst ongoing ceasefire negotiations mediated by Qatar and Egypt, with the United States’ backing. Hamas has approved a proposal involving a 60-day truce, hostage release, and aid entry. However, Israel insists on the complete release of hostages. The situation is dire in Gaza, with reports of Israeli strikes causing civilian casualties and a severe humanitarian crisis. Both sides face increasing pressure to reach a resolution, but significant obstacles remain, particularly regarding the terms for ending the war.

**News Article:**

**The Hindu: Israeli Defence Minister Approves Gaza City Conquest Plan, Jeopardizing Truce Efforts**

**Jerusalem, August 20, 2025:** The Israeli-Palestinian conflict has taken a dangerous turn as Defence Minister Israel Katz greenlit a plan to seize Gaza City, a move that threatens to derail ongoing ceasefire negotiations. The decision involves the mobilization of approximately 60,000 reservists, signaling a potential escalation of the nearly two-year-long war.

This development occurs as mediators from Qatar and Egypt, supported by the United States, are working tirelessly to broker a truce. Hamas has reportedly approved a proposal involving a 60-day ceasefire, the release of hostages, and the entry of crucial humanitarian aid into Gaza. However, a senior Israeli official has stated that Israel remains firm on its demand for the complete release of all hostages as a prerequisite for any agreement.

“The Indian perspective views this escalation with deep concern,” notes geopolitical analyst Sameer Patel. “While India recognizes Israel’s security concerns, a full-scale assault on Gaza City risks further destabilizing the region and exacerbating the already critical humanitarian situation.”

Reports from Gaza paint a grim picture. The civil defence agency reports that recent Israeli strikes have resulted in numerous civilian casualties, particularly in the Zeitoun and Sabra neighbourhoods of Gaza City. A Gazan resident described the struggle to obtain basic necessities like flour, underscoring the desperate conditions faced by the civilian population.

The complexities of the situation are further compounded by internal pressures faced by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. While Hamas has signaled a willingness to negotiate, skepticism remains about Netanyahu’s commitment to a lasting peace agreement.

As the world watches, the fate of Gaza and the prospects for a peaceful resolution hang in the balance. The international community, including India, urges both sides to prioritize de-escalation, address the humanitarian crisis, and return to meaningful dialogue. The human cost of continued conflict is simply too high.

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