Israel’s defense minister declared on Friday that the country is set to escalate military actions in Gaza unless Hamas releases additional hostages. This announcement follows a breakdown of a cease-fire that had lasted over two months, with Israel resuming airstrikes and ground operations that have reportedly led to over 500 Palestinian casualties, as stated by the Gaza health ministry.
Minister Israel Katz warned that continued refusal from Hamas to negotiate the release of hostages would result in Israel seizing more territory in Gaza. “The more Hamas persists in its refusal, the more territory it will lose,” he asserted. Early on Friday, there were no reports of significant new assaults from Israel. Efforts led by mediation teams are underway to prevent this latest surge in violence from escalating into a broader conflict.
Hamas has indicated that while negotiations for a renewed truce are ongoing, they maintain that any agreement for hostage liberation must also ensure a permanent halt to hostilities—something Israel has shown reluctance to endorse while Hamas retains control over Gaza.
In the last few days, Israeli troops have been active throughout Gaza, attacking areas said to be associated with Hamas operations. Ground forces have retaken a critical route in central Gaza and expanded search operations in both northern and southern regions, marking a significant shift in military strategy following the suspension of hostilities earlier this year.
Minister Israel Katz warned that continued refusal from Hamas to negotiate the release of hostages would result in Israel seizing more territory in Gaza. “The more Hamas persists in its refusal, the more territory it will lose,” he asserted. Early on Friday, there were no reports of significant new assaults from Israel. Efforts led by mediation teams are underway to prevent this latest surge in violence from escalating into a broader conflict.
Hamas has indicated that while negotiations for a renewed truce are ongoing, they maintain that any agreement for hostage liberation must also ensure a permanent halt to hostilities—something Israel has shown reluctance to endorse while Hamas retains control over Gaza.
In the last few days, Israeli troops have been active throughout Gaza, attacking areas said to be associated with Hamas operations. Ground forces have retaken a critical route in central Gaza and expanded search operations in both northern and southern regions, marking a significant shift in military strategy following the suspension of hostilities earlier this year.
