Israel's Prime Minister has issued a stern warning to Hamas, declaring that the current ceasefire in Gaza will end if the Palestinian group fails to release hostages by Saturday noon. This announcement follows a delay by Hamas in the release of hostages, prompting a robust response from Israel.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized the seriousness of the situation, instructing the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to gather inside and around Gaza. This move is a direct response to Hamas's decision to postpone the release of hostages, which was initially scheduled for this weekend.
While Netanyahu did not clarify whether he demands the release of all 76 remaining hostages or just the three set to be freed on Saturday, a minister indicated that the demand includes all hostages. This development has caused tension, with Hamas accusing Israel of breaching the ceasefire by blocking essential humanitarian aid, an accusation that Israel denies.
The delay in hostage release led to a proposal by US President Donald Trump, suggesting that Israel should abandon the ceasefire agreement if all hostages are not freed by the deadline. Netanyahu expressed support for Trump's stance, asserting that the IDF will resume intense operations if Hamas fails to comply.
Contradictory messages emerged from Israeli officials regarding Netanyahu's demands. Some sources indicate a willingness to maintain the ceasefire if the upcoming group of hostages is released as planned. However, Transport Minister Miri Regev emphasized that all hostages must be released by Saturday, aligning with Trump's statement.
In response, Hamas reiterated its commitment to the Gaza ceasefire agreement, blaming Israel for not fulfilling its obligations. The group criticized US President Trump's proposal to relocate Palestinians from Gaza, labeling it as racist and unfeasible.
Hamas remains open to mediation efforts by the US, Qatar, and Egypt to restore the ceasefire agreement. Senior Hamas official Basem Naim expressed hope for resolution, emphasizing readiness to release prisoners if the situation is rectified.
The initial phase of the ceasefire deal, intended to last six weeks, involves the exchange of 33 Israeli hostages for approximately 1,900 Palestinian prisoners. To date, 16 hostages have been freed, with additional releases scheduled over the coming weeks.
The agreement has facilitated the withdrawal of Israeli forces from densely populated areas of Gaza, enabling displaced Palestinians to return home and allowing humanitarian aid into the region. Despite these positive developments, the situation remains fragile, with ongoing challenges and accusations from both sides.
The conflict stems from an unprecedented cross-border attack by Hamas on 7 October 2023, resulting in significant casualties and numerous hostages. The continuing violence has led to a humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with extensive damage to infrastructure and shortages of essential supplies.
As the deadline approaches, the international community watches closely, hoping for a peaceful resolution and the release of hostages to prevent further escalation.
