Netanyahu Warns of Renewed Military Action if Hostages Are Not Released

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has issued a stark ultimatum to Hamas, warning that if the group does not release hostages by Saturday noon, Israel will terminate the ceasefire and resume intense military operations in Gaza.

The announcement came after Netanyahu chaired a four-hour security cabinet meeting earlier today in response to Hamas' declaration that it would not release additional hostages this weekend.

"The decision that I passed unanimously in the cabinet is this: If Hamas does not return our hostages by Saturday noon, the ceasefire will be terminated, and the IDF will return to intense fighting until Hamas is finally defeated," Netanyahu stated.

During the meeting, cabinet members expressed outrage over the recent hostage situation, particularly the release of three Israeli captives last Saturday. Netanyahu also welcomed U.S. President Donald Trump's demand for the immediate release of hostages and his "revolutionary vision" for Gaza's future.

"In light of Hamas' announcement of its decision to violate the agreement and not release our hostages, last night I ordered the IDF to amass forces inside and around the Gaza Strip," Netanyahu revealed. "This operation is taking place at these hours. It will be completed in the very near future."

The latest developments come amid heightened tensions as international pressure mounts to secure a resolution to the ongoing conflict.