Palestinian media on August 21 heavily focused on Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu's seemingly contradictory directives. Earlier reports reinforced his declaration to maintain control over Gaza, even if a truce was reached. By late afternoon, news emerged that Netanyahu had ordered immediate negotiations to end the Gaza war and secure prisoner release. However, this apparent shift was immediately complicated by subsequent reports suggesting Israel might not send a negotiating delegation to Cairo or Doha. This unfolded alongside his concurrent approval of plans for Gaza's occupation, depicting a complex Israeli strategy regarding the Strip's future and truce efforts. Against this backdrop, reports continued of intense Israeli bombardments on Gaza City, widespread civilian casualties, and deepening humanitarian crises, including a looming "hunger epidemic" in Gaza.