Israel is mobilizing troops in and around the Gaza Strip as Hamas delays a scheduled hostage release, accusing Israel of violating the ceasefire agreement. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warns that if Hamas does not release the hostages by noon on Saturday, the ceasefire will be terminated, and military operations will resume.
President Donald Trump echoes Netanyahu’s stance, demanding the release of all Israeli hostages by the same deadline and threatening severe consequences if Hamas fails to comply. Trump also proposes relocating Gaza’s population to neighboring countries, a suggestion that has been met with strong opposition from regional leaders.
The ceasefire, mediated by Egypt and Qatar, is now at a critical juncture. Negotiators are scrambling to salvage the agreement, emphasizing the need for continued humanitarian aid and further hostage releases. The International Committee of the Red Cross calls on both parties to uphold the ceasefire to facilitate humanitarian efforts.
In preparation for a potential escalation, the Israeli military has called up reservists and reinforced its southern border. Meanwhile, Hamas, anticipating possible Israeli military action, has ordered its leaders to go into hiding and minimize communication to avoid detection.
Families of the hostages support the firm stance taken by both U.S. and Israeli leadership, hoping that the increased pressure will lead to the safe return of their loved ones. As the Saturday deadline approaches, tensions remain high, with the potential for renewed conflict if an agreement is not reached.
Source Links:
- Israel-Gaza ceasefire: Netanyahu will end deal if hostages not released
- Trump issues ultimatum to Hamas on hostage release, threatening severe consequences
- Israel threatens to end Gaza ceasefire unless Hamas releases hostages
- Hamas faces hard choice over next hostage release as ceasefire falters
- Hamas postpones next hostage release, claiming Israel has broken ceasefire terms
- Parents of Israeli-Americans taken hostage or killed by Hamas say they trust Trump to help end their hell
