US President Donald Trump has issued a statement that could derail the fragile Gaza cease-fire, potentially leading to the release of hostages held by Hamas. The announcement has sparked jubilation among right-wing Israelis, who see it as a chance for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to withdraw from his commitment to advance the second stage of the hostage deal.
However, this development comes at a significant human cost. If the cease-fire collapses, dozens of hostages could lose their lives. It is unclear whether Trump or Netanyahu are willing to risk these lives to achieve their goals.
The majority of Israelis support the hostage deal, but now those who oppose it are facing a similar crisis of confidence as their opponents did just weeks ago. The situation remains highly uncertain and volatile, with little clear indication of what the future holds for the hostages or the cease-fire agreement.
Source: https://www.haaretz.com/israel-news/2025-02-11/ty-article/.premium/trumps-ultimatum-upends-gaza-cease-fire-and-could-derail-hostage-release/00000194-f401-dc8e-a9d6-f5614eb40000