Israel’s Defence Minister Israel Katz has issued a statement calling for the military to “seize additional areas” in Gaza if Hamas does not free all remaining hostages. The minister said the military will intensify its operation with strikes from air, sea, and land until the hostages are released and Hamas is defeated.
Katz stated that Israel still agrees to a proposal by US Envoy Steve Witkoff to release all kidnapped hostages, both living and dead, in advance and in two stages with a ceasefire in between. However, the plan has stalled due to disagreements over extending it beyond the first phase.
Hamas has rejected proposals from Israel, accusing them of being “blatant attempts” to evade agreements. The group says it is engaging with mediators with full responsibility and seriousness. The fragile ceasefire that had been in place since January ended this week as Israel resumed its ground campaign and bombing of Gaza, killing hundreds of people.
The US has proposed a voluntary transfer plan for Gaza residents, which would involve the permanent removal of its population of two million Palestinians. Israel says it will implement this plan if Hamas does not cooperate. The Palestinian Authority and Hamas have rejected any forced displacement of civilians from occupied territory, calling it “ethnic cleansing” under international law.
Tensions in the region remain high, with over 49,500 Palestinians killed and large-scale destruction to homes and infrastructure in Gaza since October 2022. The conflict has stalled negotiations on a second-phase ceasefire deal, leaving 59 hostages still held by Hamas, with 24 believed to be alive.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/clyj5vq4wnwo