Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has issued a strong warning that Israel maintains the right to recommence military operations against Hamas if ongoing ceasefire negotiations falter. In a televised address preceding the ceasefire, Netanyahu highlighted the temporary nature of the pause in fighting, stating that Israeli strikes could resume with support from U.S. President-elect Donald Trump. As the first hostages are poised for release, details surrounding future negotiations and potential military actions remain uncertain.
Netanyahu Warns of Potential War Resumption Amid Temporary Ceasefire
Netanyahu Warns of Potential War Resumption Amid Temporary Ceasefire
Israeli PM stresses military readiness after Hamas ceasefire negotiations
As Netanyahu met with journalists, he articulated Israel's achievements in its prolonged military campaign against Hamas, declaring, “We changed the face of the Middle East,” and affirming Hamas’s isolation. The upcoming ceasefire is anticipated to commence at 08:30 local time despite Israel's continuation of airstrikes on certain Hamas-targeted sites, with over 120 reported fatalities since negotiations began.
Officials indicate that Hamas is expected to release 33 hostages in a staged process, exchanging them for 1,890 Palestinian detainees. Israeli authorities have expressed concerns about not yet receiving specific names of hostages set for release under this deal and have reiterated a firm stance against any breaches of the agreement.
A complex arrangement lies ahead, with the second phase focusing on securing a lasting truce and addressing the release of remaining hostages alongside the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. The return of displaced civilians, monitored by unarmed Hamas police, and the eventual reconstruction of Gaza form part of the broader agreement which seeks a long-term resolution.
While the Israeli government approved the ceasefire after considerable debate, dissenting voices within the cabinet raised alarms about its structure and the risks of leaving hostages behind. Meanwhile, public protests have erupted in Tel Aviv demanding further action for hostages and voicing dissatisfaction concerning the government’s approach.
Tensions remain high in Gaza, where a continuous barrage of airstrikes has led to escalating civilian casualties, with the health ministry reporting upwards of 123 deaths since the ceasefire announcement. The conflict has wrought devastation on the densely populated territory, with alarming humanitarian conditions leaving millions in dire need of assistance, further complicating relief efforts amid ongoing violence.
Officials indicate that Hamas is expected to release 33 hostages in a staged process, exchanging them for 1,890 Palestinian detainees. Israeli authorities have expressed concerns about not yet receiving specific names of hostages set for release under this deal and have reiterated a firm stance against any breaches of the agreement.
A complex arrangement lies ahead, with the second phase focusing on securing a lasting truce and addressing the release of remaining hostages alongside the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. The return of displaced civilians, monitored by unarmed Hamas police, and the eventual reconstruction of Gaza form part of the broader agreement which seeks a long-term resolution.
While the Israeli government approved the ceasefire after considerable debate, dissenting voices within the cabinet raised alarms about its structure and the risks of leaving hostages behind. Meanwhile, public protests have erupted in Tel Aviv demanding further action for hostages and voicing dissatisfaction concerning the government’s approach.
Tensions remain high in Gaza, where a continuous barrage of airstrikes has led to escalating civilian casualties, with the health ministry reporting upwards of 123 deaths since the ceasefire announcement. The conflict has wrought devastation on the densely populated territory, with alarming humanitarian conditions leaving millions in dire need of assistance, further complicating relief efforts amid ongoing violence.
