Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz has warned of possible annexation of Gaza territory if Hamas does not release the remaining Israeli hostages. The ultimatum follows Israel’s resumption of heavy airstrikes on Gaza, escalating tensions in the region.
Israel Resumes Bombardment After Ceasefire Breaks
Israel renewed its attacks on Gaza earlier this week after a temporary ceasefire expired. The Israeli military reported striking key Hamas strongholds, including military intelligence operatives. Gaza’s civil defence agency confirmed 11 casualties on Friday, adding to the 504 reported deaths since the strikes resumed.
Katz declared that Israeli forces would continue capturing territory, stating, “The more Hamas refuses to free the hostages, the more territory it will lose.” He also suggested expanding buffer zones around Gaza to enhance Israeli security.
Pressure Mounts on Hamas Amid New Peace Proposal
A Palestinian source revealed that Hamas received a new ceasefire proposal from mediators Egypt and Qatar. The plan reportedly includes a prisoner exchange and humanitarian aid access, but no agreement has been reached.
Meanwhile, global condemnation has intensified. Foreign ministers from Germany, France, and Britain urged an immediate ceasefire, calling Israel’s renewed assault a “dramatic step backward.” Turkey also condemned an attack on a Turkish-funded hospital in Gaza, though Israel claims the site was a Hamas stronghold.
Hostage Crisis Sparks Protests in Israel
The hostage situation remains critical, with 58 captives still held in Gaza, including 34 who are presumed dead. Protests have erupted in Jerusalem, with demonstrators accusing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of prioritizing military action over the hostages’ safe return.
Missile Threats from Yemen and Gaza
The conflict has extended beyond Gaza, with Israel intercepting a missile fired from Yemen on Friday. The Iran-backed Houthi rebels, who have vowed retaliation for Israel’s actions in Gaza, claimed responsibility. Additionally, Hamas’s armed wing launched projectiles from northern Gaza, calling it a response to Israeli “massacres against civilians.”
Katz reiterated Israel’s commitment to defeating Hamas through “all military and civilian pressure points.” He also referenced a U.S.-proposed plan to redevelop Gaza, which would reportedly involve relocating its Palestinian inhabitants to other Arab nations.
As the crisis deepens, international efforts to broker peace remain uncertain, with both sides standing firm in their demands.
