Netanyahu Sets Hostage-Release Deadline, Threatens Renewed Gaza Offensive

In a statement from Cairo, Prime Minister Netanyahu announced that if the Palestinian militant group Hamas did not release hostages by midday Saturday, his government would end the current ceasefire and intensify military operations until Hamas was defeated. This decision followed a meeting with several key ministers from defense, foreign affairs, and national security, who all backed Netanyahu's ultimatum.

The announcement has deep implications amid ongoing tensions and a nearly 16-month-long conflict. Since the ceasefire initiated on January 19, Hamas has been gradually releasing hostages, but a recent statement from the group indicated that no further hostages would be freed due to allegations that Israel had violated the agreed terms.

Netanyahu's remarks left some ambiguity, with uncertainty over whether he expected the release of all hostages in Gaza or just the specific individuals scheduled for release on Saturday. His office has yet to provide further clarification on these points, fueling speculation over the next steps in this high-stakes standoff.