Israel has issued a stern warning to Hamas, stating that it will resume intense military operations in Gaza if the militant group fails to release hostages by Saturday noon. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared that should Hamas not comply, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) would launch a full-scale offensive to ensure the group’s defeat.
The ceasefire agreement, which has largely halted the 15-month-long conflict, was based on a structured exchange—hostages held by Hamas were to be released in phases in return for Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. While both sides have completed five such exchanges, recent delays and allegations of violations have placed the truce under immense strain.
The situation escalated further after former U.S. President Donald Trump reinforced Netanyahu’s ultimatum. Speaking earlier this week, Trump warned that if all Israeli hostages were not freed by the deadline, “all bets are off,” and that Israel should cancel the ceasefire and “let hell break out.” His remarks have drawn criticism, with Hamas accusing him of worsening an already fragile situation. Senior Hamas leader Sami Abu Zuhri stated that both parties must uphold their commitments, emphasizing that Israel has also violated the agreement.
Meanwhile, tensions in the region continue to rise. Netanyahu’s government, backed by far-right officials like Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, is calling for a complete military takeover of Gaza if Hamas does not release the captives. Smotrich insisted that humanitarian aid should be halted and that Israel should pursue total control over the territory. In response, Hamas announced it would delay the next scheduled hostage release, citing Israel’s failure to uphold its end of the deal, including the provision of aid.
The humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire. A UN report estimated that rebuilding the war-ravaged region will require over $53 billion. The ongoing conflict has already claimed tens of thousands of lives, with the Gaza health ministry reporting at least 48,219 deaths, figures the UN deems credible.
Families of hostages gathered outside Netanyahu’s office, urging the government to prioritize the agreement and secure their loved ones’ safe return. Amid fears of escalating violence, regional powers, including Jordan and Egypt, are actively working to mediate and prevent the ceasefire from collapsing.
Despite diplomatic efforts, the potential breakdown of the ceasefire threatens to plunge Gaza back into full-scale war, exacerbating the already catastrophic humanitarian crisis.
