Israel has warned that it will resume full-scale military operations against Hamas if the group fails to release hostages by midday on Saturday. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued the ultimatum, stating that Israel is prepared to escalate its offensive in Gaza unless Hamas complies with the demand.
אם חמאס לא יחזיר את חטופינו עד שבת בצהריים – הפסקת האש תיפסק, וצה”ל יחזור ללחימה עצימה עד להכרעה סופית של החמאס pic.twitter.com/4Cx30kHGvN
— Benjamin Netanyahu – בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) February 11, 2025
The ceasefire, which has been in place since January 19, is now hanging by a thread. Netanyahu declared that if Hamas does not meet the deadline, “intense fighting” will resume until the group is completely dismantled. His statement signals that Israel is prepared to push forward with its military campaign despite growing international pressure to maintain the truce.
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Hamas has so far resisted the demand, accusing Israel of violating ceasefire conditions and failing to engage in good-faith negotiations. The militant group has delayed the release of hostages, citing Israel’s continued blockade of Gaza and airstrikes on specific locations during the truce.
Global Concern Over Escalating Tensions
The latest standoff has sparked concerns that Gaza could plunge back into full-scale conflict within days. The war, which began in October, has already left thousands dead and displaced millions, making a return to fighting a major humanitarian catastrophe.
Egypt and Qatar, which have played key roles in mediating the ceasefire, are working urgently to prevent a collapse. Egyptian officials have warned that any renewed military operation could destabilize the broader region, especially if it leads to further displacement of Palestinians.
China has expressed concern over the situation, calling for a ceasefire and a return to negotiations. Germany’s Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock emphasized the need for a diplomatic solution to secure the release of hostages. The United Nations has warned of the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza, highlighting the urgent need for aid and protection of civilians.
Human Cost of Renewed Conflict
If Israel follows through on its threat, the humanitarian toll could be devastating. Gaza’s healthcare system is already on the verge of collapse, with hospitals running out of medical supplies due to the Israeli blockade. International aid groups have pleaded for unrestricted access to deliver food, water, and medicine, but the situation remains dire.
The potential military escalation also raises concerns about civilian casualties. Past offensives in Gaza have resulted in widespread destruction, with airstrikes leveling entire neighborhoods. The United Nations estimates that over 1.5 million people in Gaza are currently displaced, with many seeking refuge in overcrowded shelters that lack basic necessities.
Trump’s Controversial Gaza Proposal
As tensions rise, U.S. President Donald Trump has added further controversy to the situation by floating a radical plan for Gaza’s future. Trump has proposed relocating Palestinians from Gaza and transforming the territory into a luxury resort destination, calling it the “Riviera of the Middle East.”
His plan, which envisions a U.S.-backed redevelopment of Gaza, has been met with widespread rejection. Arab nations, including Egypt and Jordan, have condemned any attempt to forcibly remove Palestinians from their land. The Arab League warned that such proposals are dangerous and could ignite further conflict across the Middle East.
Even within the U.S., Trump’s idea has sparked debate. While some Republicans have supported his vision, Democrats have strongly opposed it, calling it a blatant violation of Palestinian rights. Senator Chris Van Hollen labeled the proposal “ethnic cleansing,” while Representative Rashida Tlaib stated that Palestinians “aren’t going anywhere.”
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With just days before Israel’s deadline, the situation in Gaza remains precarious. If Hamas refuses to release hostages, Israel is likely to launch a new offensive, leading to further devastation in the region. On the other hand, if mediation efforts succeed, the ceasefire could be extended, offering a slim chance for de-escalation.