Flash News

Bota

Netanyahu gives Hamas ultimatum: Release hostages by Saturday or war resumes

Netanyahu gives Hamas ultimatum: Release hostages by Saturday or war resumes
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has warned Hamas that if the hostages are not released by Saturday, the ceasefire in Gaza will end and the Israeli army will return to intense fighting.

In a 4-hour meeting with the government cabinet, Netanyahu stated that the decision was unanimously approved by all members of his cabinet.

So far, 16 Israeli hostages have been released in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners since January 19. Hamas has also handed over five Thai hostages, while 17 Israeli hostages remain, eight of whom are suspected to be dead.

Netanyahu: "IDF is ready to resume fighting"
" I just finished an in-depth discussion in the political-security cabinet. We are all outraged by the situation of the three hostages released on Saturday. If Hamas does not return the hostages by Saturday noon, the ceasefire will be broken and the IDF will resume the offensive until Hamas is completely defeated, " Netanyahu declared.

Israeli forces have reportedly begun massing troops in and around Gaza, as tensions between the parties reach another peak.

Latest news