Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that the ceasefire in Gaza would end and military operations against Hamas would resume if the group did not release hostages by midday Saturday.
Hamas accused Israel of jeopardizing the ceasefire and insisted on adhering to the agreement. Netanyahu’s ultimatum followed a meeting with key ministers who supported the move. The ceasefire has seen gradual hostage releases by Hamas in exchange for prisoners held by Israel, but tensions remain high with both sides accusing each other of violations.
U.S. President Donald Trump has backed Israel, stating that Hamas should release all hostages by Saturday. Meanwhile, far-right Israeli ministers have called for severe measures if the hostages are not released, including cutting off essential services to Gaza.
Trump has also proposed a controversial plan to relocate Gaza’s Palestinian residents, which has sparked outrage among Palestinians and Arab leaders. The plan diverges from the long-standing U.S. policy supporting a two-state solution and is seen as a potential war crime under international law.
