Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has warned that military operations in Gaza will resume if Hamas fails to release nine remaining hostages by noon on Saturday. The warning comes as tensions rise over stalled negotiations and accusations of ceasefire violations.
Netanyahu’s Warning: A Deadline Looms
Netanyahu’s message was blunt. If Hamas does not comply with the terms of the ceasefire and release the nine Israeli hostages, “the ceasefire will end, and the IDF will return to intense fighting until Hamas is finally defeated,” he declared in a video posted on social media.
The statement followed an emergency cabinet meeting where Israeli officials discussed Hamas’ refusal to free the hostages, who were supposed to be released under the first phase of the truce agreement. “Hamas violated the agreement,” one senior official stated. “There will be no progress on further negotiations unless our hostages are returned.”
Hamas’ Defiance and Hostage Delay
Hamas has accused Israel of breaching the ceasefire deal and announced that it would delay the release of the hostages “until further notice.” A spokesperson for the group’s armed wing justified the decision by claiming Israel had not upheld its end of the agreement. The specific grievances remain unclear, but Hamas’ refusal to release the captives has escalated tensions.
For Israeli families awaiting the return of their loved ones, the delay is agonizing. The ceasefire, which came into effect on January 19, led to several hostage releases in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. However, the latest developments have cast doubt on the agreement’s future.
U.S. and International Reactions
The crisis has drawn strong reactions from global leaders. U.S. President Donald Trump took an unyielding stance, urging Israel to abandon the ceasefire if Hamas does not comply. “If all of the hostages aren’t returned by Saturday noon, I would say cancel it and let all bets be off. Let hell break out,” he told reporters at the White House.
European leaders have expressed concern over the escalating rhetoric, calling for diplomatic efforts to salvage the ceasefire. However, Israel remains firm in its stance, with officials stating that any further agreements depend on Hamas adhering to existing commitments.
What Happens Next?
With the deadline approaching, several scenarios could unfold:
- Hamas complies: If the nine hostages are freed, there could be discussions for extending the truce and negotiating further exchanges.
- Partial compliance: A staggered release might buy more time for diplomacy, but it could also test Israel’s patience.
- No compliance: If Hamas refuses to release the hostages, Israel has made it clear that the military will resume operations “until Hamas is finally defeated.”
Netanyahu’s ultimatum has left little room for negotiation. If the deadline passes without action from Hamas, Gaza may once again become the center of intense military conflict.
