Key Facts
- Offensive start (initial stages)
- 20 August 2025
- Main offensive start
- 15 September 2025
- Ceasefire implemented
- 10 October 2025
- Buildings destroyed by 30 Sep
- ~1,250
- Famine confirmed in Gaza City
- 22 August 2025 (IPC)
Strategic Narrative Overview
Israel announced the first stages on 20 August 2025, with a larger main offensive launching on 15 September. Intensive airstrikes and ground operations destroyed approximately 1,250 buildings by 30 September, devastating residential areas. Hamas launched a counter-offensive it named Operation Moses' Staff. International bodies, including the IPC, confirmed famine conditions in Gaza City on 22 August, and experts warned the offensive would deepen the humanitarian crisis.
01 / The Origins
The offensive emerged from the broader Gaza war, as Israel sought to dislodge Hamas from its last major urban stronghold in Gaza City. Framed as a sequel to Operation Gideon's Chariots (May–August 2025), Israeli officials stated the campaign aimed to break Hamas control and secure the release of remaining hostages. Hamas allegedly moved hostages into combat zones as human shields, further complicating the military and diplomatic situation.
03 / The Outcome
Following a positive Hamas response to a peace plan and a public call from U.S. President Donald Trump to halt advances, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered the IDF to stop operations on 4 October 2025. A ceasefire was implemented on 10 October, after which Israeli forces withdrew from parts of Gaza City, leaving the city's status and reconstruction prospects deeply uncertain.
Belligerents & Mobilization Analysis
Side A
1 belligerent
Benjamin Netanyahu.
Side B
1 belligerent
Kinetic Engagement Axis
Scroll horizontally to view full axis. Events plotted relatively.