Jerusalem – Tensions in Gaza have reached a boiling point as Israel warned that “all hell will break loose” on Hamas if the group does not proceed with the scheduled release of captives this weekend. The statement from Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz comes amid growing uncertainty over the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas.
Ceasefire Agreement in Jeopardy
The ceasefire, which went into effect on January 19, was aimed at providing a temporary halt to the ongoing 16-month conflict in Gaza. As part of the deal, Israel was expected to supply humanitarian aid, including tents and other essential goods, while Hamas was to release hostages taken during its October 7, 2023, cross-border raid.
However, Hamas recently indicated that it might postpone the next phase of hostage releases, alleging that Israel has not fully honored its commitments under the truce. Hamas spokesman Mahmoud Merdawi stated that while there are “positive indications” that three captives would be freed as scheduled, the group has yet to receive a firm guarantee from Israel on meeting its obligations.
An Egyptian official involved in negotiations, speaking on condition of anonymity, suggested that an agreement between the two sides was close, with Israel promising to send additional heavy equipment, tents, and shelters to Gaza. Israeli officials, however, have not formally responded to these claims.
Threats and Counter-Threats
The latest crisis has reignited tensions between Israeli leadership and Hamas, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordering reinforcements around Gaza and threatening military action if the hostage release does not go forward. Israel has already pulled back troops from some populated areas under the ceasefire, but further delays could lead to a resumption of combat operations.
Defense Minister Katz reiterated the threat, invoking former U.S. President Donald Trump’s words, stating, “All hell will break loose” if Hamas fails to comply. He emphasized that if no agreement is reached, Israel would resume its military campaign until Hamas is defeated.
Meanwhile, Hamas spokesperson Hazem Kassem accused Israel of not adhering to the truce and criticized both Israeli and U.S. threats. According to Hamas, Israel is blocking essential supplies, including prefabricated houses and heavy equipment, from entering Gaza.
Trump’s Involvement Adds to Uncertainty
Adding to the complexity, Trump’s recent comments on Gaza have further unsettled the fragile truce. The former U.S. president has proposed relocating Palestinian residents from Gaza to neighboring countries such as Jordan and Egypt, a suggestion both nations have strongly opposed. Trump’s remarks have emboldened Israel to demand that Hamas release all remaining captives at once, instead of the staggered weekly releases currently in place.
Jordan’s King Abdullah II, who met with Trump earlier this week, reiterated his country’s opposition to any forced displacement of Palestinians. The suggestion has been met with widespread criticism in the Arab world, with many viewing it as an attempt to redraw regional demographics without Palestinian consent.
Uncertain Future for Ceasefire Talks
The crisis comes at a crucial time, as Israel and Hamas were expected to begin discussions on a second phase of the ceasefire, which would involve releasing more hostages, extending the truce, and gradually withdrawing Israeli forces from Gaza. However, with both sides at an impasse, negotiations have stalled.
Political pressure is also mounting within Israel. While Netanyahu’s allies push for an extended military campaign, public anger over the fragile state of released captives has grown. The deteriorated condition of three recently freed hostages has fueled criticism of the government’s handling of the situation, increasing demands for a resolution to the hostage crisis.
As the deadline for the next scheduled hostage release nears, all eyes remain on Gaza, where the fate of the ceasefire – and potentially the broader conflict – hangs in the balance.
