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Netanyahu’s Ultimatum to Hamas Amid Tense Ceasefire
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday issued a stern warning to Hamas, threatening to withdraw from the current ceasefire and resume intense military operations in Gaza if the militant group fails to release more hostages by Saturday noon. This decision came in the wake of President Donald Trump’s recent threats to allow "all hell to break out" in Gaza. Hamas has accused Israel of violating the terms of their three-week-old ceasefire, pointing to deadly shootings, blocked humanitarian aid, and restricted Palestinian movement as reasons for delaying the next round of hostage-prisoner exchanges.
Emergency Meeting and Unanimous Support
Following a four-hour emergency meeting with Israel’s security cabinet on Tuesday afternoon, Netanyahu announced unanimous backing to mobilize Israeli troops in and around Gaza. In a video statement, Netanyahu declared, "If Hamas does not return our hostages by Saturday noon — the ceasefire will end and the [Israel Defense Forces] will return to intense fighting until Hamas is finally defeated." It remains unclear whether Netanyahu is referring to the three hostages originally scheduled for release or all remaining captives.
Ceasefire and Hostage Releases
The fragile ceasefire, which came into effect on January 19, was designed to end nearly 16 months of war in the Gaza Strip through a three-phase agreement. Under the first phase, meant to last 42 days, Hamas has incrementally released 21 of 33 hostages, including five Thai nationals. However, 76 hostages are still held in Gaza, with over 35 believed to be dead. Many of those still in captivity were among the 250 people kidnapped during the Hamas-led attack on October 7, 2023, which resulted in the deaths of 1,200 people. Since the start of Israel’s military offensive in Gaza, more than 48,000 Palestinians have been killed, and the majority of Gaza’s 2.3 million population has been forcibly displaced according to local officials.
Trump’s Intense Pressure on Hamas
President Trump has been particularly vocal, demanding that Hamas free all remaining hostages "by Saturday at 12 o’clock." The U.S. president did not specify whether he meant midnight or midday. Trump’s stance was reinforced following a White House meeting with Jordan’s King Abdullah, where he reiterated his belief that Jordan and Egypt should take in Palestinians displaced from Gaza. King Abdullah II, while steadfastly opposing the plan, did offer to take in 2,000 Palestinian children suffering from cancer or other serious illnesses. Last week, Trump suggested that the 2.3 million residents of Gaza should leave the enclave to allow the U.S. to transform it into the "Riviera of the Middle East." Netanyahu endorsed Trump’s proposal during Tuesday’s security cabinet meeting.
Hamas Responds to Trump’s Plan
In response to Trump’s suggestions, senior Hamas official Sami Abu Zuhri told Reuters, "Trump must remember there is an agreement that must be respected by both parties, and this is the only way to bring back the [Israeli] prisoners." While Trump’s plan has garnered support from Israel’s political right wing, it has sparked significant concern among the families of hostages held by Hamas. The Hostages Families Forum, a volunteer-based group representing these families, urged Netanyahu to adhere to the ceasefire to ensure the continued release of their loved ones.
Families’ Distress and Plea for Continuity
The Hostages Families Forum expressed deep distress about the prospect of a ceasefire breakdown, stating, "We must not go backwards. We cannot allow the hostages to waste away in captivity." Their call for Netanyahu to stick to the ceasefire agreement highlights the critical importance of ensuring the safety and release of the captives. The situation in Gaza remains highly volatile, with both sides facing immense pressure and the potential for renewed conflict looming large.
