Israel Warns Hamas: Release Hostages by Saturday or Face War
📅 Publication Date**: 12.02.2025 |5
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### **Escalating Tensions: Israel's Ultimatum to Hamas**
In a dramatic escalation of tensions, Israeli Defense Minister Yisrael Katz has issued a stark warning to Hamas, declaring that if the group does not release the Israeli hostages by Saturday, "the gates of hell will open upon them." This statement signals a potential resurgence of military operations in Gaza, raising concerns about a new phase of conflict in the already volatile region.
### **Israel Prepares for a Renewed Military Offensive**
During a high-level meeting with the Israeli military, Katz emphasized that any new war in Gaza would be "different in intensity" from previous operations. He stated that the offensive would continue until Hamas is decisively defeated and all hostages are freed. This marks a significant shift from the recent ceasefire, indicating that Israel is prepared to launch a more aggressive campaign if its demands are not met.
### **Implications for U.S. Involvement**
Katz also suggested that a renewed conflict could pave the way for former U.S. President Donald Trump to implement his strategic vision for Gaza. While he did not elaborate on what this entails, it hints at possible geopolitical maneuvering involving Washington, which has historically played a key role in Middle East diplomacy.
### **IDF on High Alert: Readiness for Any Scenario**
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have already raised their level of alert, suspending leave for combat troops and operational units in the Southern Command. This move indicates that military planners are preparing for multiple scenarios, including a full-scale ground offensive.
The heightened state of readiness follows reports that Hamas' military wing, the Al-Qassam Brigades, has delayed the scheduled release of Israeli captives. According to Hamas spokesperson Osama Hamdan, Israel has violated 90% of the humanitarian protocol agreed upon in the prisoner exchange deal, prompting the delay.
### **The Risk of a Widening Conflict**
If hostilities resume, the humanitarian situation in Gaza is likely to deteriorate further. Previous Israeli offensives have led to significant civilian casualties and destruction of infrastructure. International mediators, including Egypt and Qatar, have been working to prevent another escalation, but Israel’s latest ultimatum suggests that diplomatic efforts may be running out of time.
### **Conclusion: A Critical Crossroads**
The next 72 hours will be crucial in determining whether Gaza plunges back into war. With both sides standing firm, the potential for renewed violence looms large. If Hamas does not comply with Israel’s demand, a devastating conflict may be inevitable—one that could reshape the geopolitical landscape of the region once again.
As tensions rise, the world watches closely, hoping for a resolution that avoids further bloodshed. However, given the hardened positions of both Israel and Hamas, a peaceful outcome appears increasingly uncertain.
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🔴 **Stay tuned for updates on
the developing situation in Gaza.**
****: #Israel #Hamas #GazaWar #HostageCrisis #MiddleEastConflict #IDF #Netanyahu #Trump #Ceasefire #Geopolitics
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