Netanyahu Threatens to End Gaza Ceasefire If Hostages Not Released by Saturday

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has issued a stern warning, announcing that the ceasefire in Gaza will be terminated and military operations will resume if hostages held by Hamas are not released by midday on Saturday. In a statement on Friday, Netanyahu emphasized that Israel’s efforts against Hamas would continue until the militant group was defeated, should they fail to meet the deadline.
The announcement followed a high-level meeting between Netanyahu and key Israeli ministers, including those responsible for defense, foreign affairs, and national security. All ministers expressed their full support for the ultimatum, underscoring the government’s firm stance on demanding the release of hostages.
“The ceasefire was a temporary measure, but our responsibility to protect our citizens and return hostages home is non-negotiable,” Netanyahu declared. He further stressed that Israel would not tolerate any delay in the safe return of hostages, reiterating that military operations could resume at any time if Hamas does not comply with the deadline.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump also voiced strong support for Netanyahu’s position, warning that any failure by Hamas to release the hostages would result in the end of the ceasefire. Trump stated that the U.S. stood with Israel in its efforts to ensure the safe return of hostages and would back the Israeli government’s decision to take whatever actions were necessary to protect its citizens.
The tense situation has put international attention back on the ongoing conflict in Gaza, with both Israel and Hamas under immense pressure from global powers to either negotiate a peaceful resolution or prepare for the continuation of hostilities.
As the deadline approaches, the world watches closely to see whether hostages will be released or if Israel will carry out its threat to resume military operations.