Netanyahu's Ultimatum: Hamas Must Release Hostages or Israel Will Resume Military Action
On February 11, Eastern Standard Time, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu issued an ultimatum to Hamas, demanding the release of hostages by noon on Saturday, February 15. Failure to comply would result in Israel terminating the ceasefire agreement and fully resuming military operations. This decision has thrown the Gaza ceasefire agreement into a highly unstable state, provoking a strong reaction from Hamas and drawing the attention of U.S. President Trump, further complicating the situation.
Israel's Ultimatum: The Crucial Point Between Ceasefire and Warfare
After meetings with the Defense Minister, Foreign Minister, and national security officials, Netanyahu emphasized that if Hamas does not release hostages by the deadline, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) will relaunch large-scale military operations until "Hamas is completely defeated." He stated, "If the hostages are not released by Saturday, the ceasefire will be immediately terminated, and our troops will reengage in combat until Hamas is utterly vanquished."
However, it is not clear exactly which hostages Netanyahu is demanding to be released—all those detained or just the three originally scheduled for release under the agreement on Saturday. Israeli officials have not provided further clarification.
According to Israeli media, there are currently 76 hostages still detained in Gaza, with over 35 confirmed dead. The Israeli government is under immense domestic pressure to facilitate the quick release of the hostages while ensuring national security.
Hamas Reacts Toughly, Accuses Israel of Breaking Ceasefire Agreement
In response to Israel's threat, Hamas quickly released a statement reaffirming its commitment to the ceasefire and accusing Israel of violating the agreement. Hamas officials stated that only if Israel adheres to the ceasefire agreement will hostages be released, rejecting Netanyahu's "threatening rhetoric." They also accused Israel of perpetuating fatal shootings during the ceasefire, obstructing humanitarian aid into Gaza, and preventing Palestinians from returning to their homes in the north—all in violation of the ceasefire agreement.
Israel denies these accusations, explaining that military shooting incidents occurred when individuals ignored warnings and attempted to enter restricted military zones. Regarding humanitarian supplies, the Israeli government insists that aid was not withheld but subjected to stringent security checks to prevent misuse by Hamas.
Trump Intervenes, Israel Prepares to Resume Hostilities
President Trump, a staunch ally of Israel, has also urged Hamas to release all hostages by Saturday. He stated on social media, "Hamas must immediately release all hostages, only then peace can have a chance to continue." Trump's involvement has heightened tensions and clarified America's stance on the conflict.
Simultaneously, Israel is preparing militarily. Netanyahu has ordered the IDF to amass troops within and around Gaza and plans to deploy additional forces to the south, including mobilizing some reservists. This indicates that Israel is ready for possible military action, with hostilities potentially reigniting if Hamas fails to meet its demands.
Dim Prospects for Ceasefire, Regional Tensions Escalate
Netanyahu's ultimatum presents a severe challenge to the Gaza ceasefire. If Hamas fails to release hostages on time, the ceasefire agreement might quickly collapse, leading Israel to resume large-scale military strikes, further worsening the situation. Meanwhile, Hamas's accusations against Israel and its military mobilization make the prospects for peace appear even bleaker.
In light of global attention, the coming days will be crucial for determining the continuation of the Gaza ceasefire. Whether Israel will proceed with planned military actions, whether Hamas will release the hostages, and whether the international community can broker new diplomatic negotiations will all significantly influence the direction of the situation. Without compromise, the Middle East may face another severe conflict.
