Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has issued a stern warning to Hamas, stating that if the remaining hostages are not released promptly, Hamas will face “consequences that you cannot imagine.” This ultimatum comes amid stalled negotiations and a fragile ceasefire, with Israel prepared to resume military operations if necessary.
Hostage Crisis Intensifies
Fifty-nine Israeli hostages remain in Gaza following the expiration of a six-week ceasefire on Saturday. Netanyahu has now given Hamas just “several days” to agree to new terms or risk severe military retaliation.
“We are giving Hamas several days in which to try to agree to some kind of bridging proposal,” Netanyahu’s spokesperson Omer Dostri told Army Radio on Tuesday. “If not, we shall convene the security cabinet, the premier, and the ministers to make a decision.”
Failed Ceasefire & Rejected Agreements
The ceasefire, which began on January 19, resulted in the release of 33 hostages by Hamas. However, eight were returned in coffins, underscoring the dire situation. In exchange, Israel freed thousands of prisoners, many of whom were accused of terrorism.
A U.S.-backed proposal sought to extend the truce through mid-April, covering both Ramadan and Passover, with a provision to release half of the remaining hostages immediately. While Israel’s cabinet approved the deal, Hamas rejected it, citing alleged violations of the previous agreement.
Military Action Looms
Defense Minister Israel Katz announced Monday that Israel agreed to allow mediators a few more days to negotiate. However, he issued a stark warning to Hamas:
“If Hamas does not release the hostages soon, the gates of Gaza will be locked, and the gates of hell will be opened – we will return to fighting, and they will face the IDF with forces and methods they have never encountered before.”
Sources indicate that if an agreement is not reached, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) could resume operations in Gaza within the next 10 days. Approximately 50,000 IDF troops are reportedly being prepared under the leadership of new Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir.
What’s Next?
U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff is expected to return to the region in the coming days to press Hamas for a resolution. However, if negotiations fail, Israel appears poised for a renewed military offensive.
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