Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu cautions that military operations may resume if hostages are not released by Saturday, as tensions escalate during a delicate ceasefire.
Israel has delivered a strong warning concerning the current ceasefire agreement with Hamas, asserting that military actions in Gaza will recommence if hostages are not freed by noon on Saturday.
This declaration comes after a series of rising tensions connected to the hostage crisis and the enforcement of the ceasefire.
US President
Donald Trump, who has been instrumental in brokering the ceasefire established last month, reiterated his stance during a meeting with Jordan's King Abdullah II at the White House, suggesting that noncompliance from Hamas would lead to serious repercussions.
Trump remarked that "hell" would break loose if all Israeli hostages were not returned by the specified deadline.
The ceasefire, which has been in place for over a month, has put an end to the relentless fighting that persisted for more than 15 months in Gaza, facilitating the exchange of hostages and prisoners between both sides.
Thus far, five exchanges have occurred, resulting in the release of 16 Israeli hostages in return for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners.
In a statement following a cabinet meeting, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu proclaimed, "if Hamas does not return our hostages by Saturday noon, the ceasefire will conclude, and the IDF (Israel Defense Forces) will resume intense fighting until Hamas is decisively defeated." His comments suggest a potential change in Israel’s strategy if the hostage situation remains unresolved by the deadline.
Hamas, represented by senior leader Sami Abu Zuhri, reacted to Trump’s statements by stressing the importance of both parties adhering to the agreement, warning that violations could further complicate the efforts to secure the release of hostages.
The group announced it would delay the planned release of hostages, citing Israel's failure to fulfill its commitments under the agreement.
Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich backed Netanyahu’s threats, calling for a strong response if hostages are not returned.
"No more phases, no more games," Smotrich declared, reflecting mounting pressure within the Israeli government for a firmer stance against Hamas.
United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed concern over the potential resumption of hostilities, urging Hamas to comply with the scheduled releases and pointing out the humanitarian consequences of renewed conflict.
Simultaneously, Israeli military preparedness near Gaza has been heightened as tensions escalate, with additional troops and reservists being deployed.
At the same time, families of hostages gathered outside Netanyahu’s office, appealing for the government to honor the ceasefire agreement.
Recent reports from released hostages reveal alarming conditions for those still in captivity, including claims of malnutrition and distress.
Relatives of hostages have voiced their fears about the safety of their loved ones and are advocating for the enforcement of the current deal.
In Gaza, civilians remain apprehensive about the potential resurgence of conflict.
Residents have expressed hope that the ceasefire will endure, yet they recognize that factions within both Hamas and Israel may seek further warfare.
The conflict, reignited by a Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, has resulted in substantial casualties, with over 1,211 fatalities reported in Israel and at least 48,218 in Gaza, according to figures from the health ministry in Hamas-controlled Gaza.
UN estimates suggest that more than $53 billion will be needed for Gaza's reconstruction, highlighting the grave humanitarian crisis facing the region.
As the Saturday deadline draws near, the international community’s attention remains fixed on the ongoing developments surrounding the hostage situation and the precarious ceasefire.