Netanyahu Warns Hamas: Ceasefire to End if Hostages Not Released by Saturday.
Jerusalem: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has issued a stark ultimatum to Hamas, declaring that if the Palestinian militant group does not release hostages by Saturday afternoon (February 15, 2025), Israel will resume military operations in Gaza. This warning came following a high-level security cabinet meeting held on Tuesday (February 11), where Netanyahu emphasized that the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) are fully prepared for action.
“If Hamas does not return our hostages by Saturday afternoon, the ceasefire will end, and the IDF will resume intense fighting until Hamas is decisively defeated,” Netanyahu stated. However, he did not clarify whether he was referring to all hostages or specific individuals.
Tensions Rise as Hamas Halts Hostage Releases
Hamas has accused Israel of violating the ceasefire agreement and, in response, has halted the process of releasing hostages. This move has escalated concerns over the collapse of the fragile truce, which was brokered by international mediators. In response, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz has ordered the IDF to remain on high alert for potential military operations.
Military Action Looms if Deadline Passes
If Hamas fails to meet the deadline, Israel is expected to launch a large-scale military offensive aimed at securing a decisive victory over Hamas. Analysts suggest that this could lead to a further intensification of the conflict, increasing instability across the region.
The IDF has been conducting preparatory exercises and gathering intelligence for a potential resumption of hostilities. Reports indicate that a renewed Israeli assault could focus on dismantling Hamas’s military infrastructure and eliminating key leadership figures.
Regional Implications and International Reactions
The United Nations and Western allies have urged both sides to uphold the ceasefire and avoid further escalation. The United States has expressed concern over the potential humanitarian crisis that could unfold if fighting resumes, while Arab nations, including Egypt and Qatar, are working behind the scenes to salvage the truce.
Despite diplomatic efforts, Netanyahu’s latest statement indicates that Israel is prepared to act unilaterally if Hamas does not comply with the demands. The next few days will be crucial in determining whether the ceasefire holds or if the region plunges into another deadly conflict.
All Eyes on Saturday’s Deadline
The countdown has begun, and the world is watching as the Saturday deadline approaches. If Hamas does not release the hostages, Netanyahu has made it clear that Israel will not hesitate to resume its military campaign. The coming days will determine the fate of the ceasefire and the future course of the Israel-Gaza conflict.
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