Israel on High Alert as Hamas Deadline for Hostage Release Approaches
Jerusalem/Dubai – Israel has mobilized military reservists amid concerns that the ceasefire in the Gaza Strip could collapse if Hamas fails to release Israeli hostages by a Saturday deadline. The escalating tension has sparked international outrage over President Donald Trump’s controversial plan for Gaza.
Ceasefire in Jeopardy
The truce, brokered by Egypt and Qatar with US support, has been strained by Hamas’s suspension of hostage releases, citing alleged Israeli violations. Hamas’s Gaza chief, Khalil Al-Hayya, has traveled to Cairo for talks to salvage the deal.
Trump’s Gaza Vision Fuels Anger
President Trump’s proposal to relocate Gaza’s Palestinian inhabitants and establish an international beach resort has drawn widespread condemnation in the Arab world. Hamas has denounced the plan as an attempt to displace Palestinians and has vowed to resist it.
Israeli Military Prepares for War
Israeli Defense Minister Avigdor Lieberman has stated that if Hamas fails to release the hostages, "there is no ceasefire and there is war." He has warned that the "new Gaza war" will be more intense and will facilitate Trump’s vision for Gaza.
Netanyahu Threatens Intense Fighting
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has also threatened to resume "intense fighting" if Hamas does not comply with the deadline. However, he has not specified the number of hostages that must be released.
Diplomatic Efforts Intensify
Egypt and Qatar are reportedly intensifying their mediation efforts to prevent the collapse of the ceasefire. US President Trump has asked Jordan’s King Abdullah to convey the gravity of the situation to Hamas.
Gazans Fear Renewed Conflict
Residents of Gaza are deeply concerned about the potential for renewed violence. They have witnessed the devastating toll of previous conflicts, which have forced widespread internal displacement and shortages of essential supplies.
Hostage Release and Prisoner Swap
Hamas has agreed to release three additional hostages on Saturday. However, the armed wing of Hamas ally Islamic Jihad, which is also holding Israeli hostages, has warned that their fate is linked to Netanyahu’s actions. Negotiators hope to secure a prisoner swap deal to facilitate the release of all remaining hostages.
Arab Outrage over Trump’s Plan
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi is reportedly considering canceling a trip to Washington if Trump’s Gaza plan is on the agenda. Trump’s proposal has reignited fears of a Palestinian exodus and the disruption of established refugee communities.
Historical Context
The current conflict stems from a Hamas-led attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, which resulted in the capture of over 250 hostages. Israel responded with an air and ground offensive that killed tens of thousands of Palestinians.
Conclusion
The standoff between Israel and Hamas poses a serious threat to the ceasefire in Gaza. Hamas’s suspension of hostage releases, coupled with Trump’s controversial Gaza plan, has inflamed tensions and raised fears of a renewed conflict. Diplomatic efforts are ongoing, but the deadline for the release of hostages is rapidly approaching, leaving the future of the ceasefire uncertain.
