Issuing an uncompromising ultimatum, Prime Minister Netanyahu demanded Hamas immediately release all Israeli hostages.
He warned that failure to comply would trigger devastating US-Israel military action described as “opening hell’s gates”.
He made these comments during a joint press conference with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Jerusalem, marking Rubio’s first Middle East tour since taking office.
This warning follows Israel’s recent receipt of a shipment of American-made heavy bombs.
Previously, the Biden administration had blocked these due to concerns about their potential use in Gaza.
Moreover, Netanyahu’s provocative rhetoric highlights the tense backdrop as negotiations on “phase two” of the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas are set to intensify this week after weeks of delays and disputes.
Hostage Negotiations and Ceasefire Challenges
The ceasefire, which took effect six weeks ago, has already facilitated the release of 19 out of 33 Israeli hostages.
This release occurred as part of the initial agreement aimed at securing their freedom.
Despite this progress, eight hostages have tragically been confirmed dead, and dozens still remain in captivity.
The continuation of further releases heavily relies on extending the truce, which currently faces significant obstacles.
Hamas has accused Israel of violating the ceasefire, pointing to an airstrike near Rafah in southern Gaza.
They reported that the strike resulted in the deaths of three policemen, who were allegedly protecting aid deliveries during the incident.
In contrast, Israel claims that the men targeted were armed individuals approaching Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) positions.
This disagreement underscores the fragile nature of the truce and the considerable challenges facing mediators in achieving lasting peace.
Negotiations for the second phase of the ceasefire were supposed to begin two weeks ago.
However, delays arose when Mr. Netanyahu prioritized a visit to Washington over the discussions.
Last week, further complications emerged when Hamas threatened to halt hostage releases.
They cited alleged Israeli breaches of the agreement, particularly concerning restrictions on aid deliveries.
The first phase of the ceasefire is set to expire on March 2.
US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff confirmed that talks on extending and expanding the ceasefire would resume this week.
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Mr. Netanyahu has also announced plans to convene his security cabinet to discuss the next steps.
US-Israel Strategy and Regional Dynamics
During his remarks, Mr. Netanyahu emphasized the shared strategic vision between Israel and US President Donald Trump regarding Gaza.
“We can’t always share the details of this strategy to the public, including when the gates of hell will be opened as they surely will if all our hostages are not released,” he said.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio echoed this alignment, defending President Trump’s controversial proposal for Gaza’s future.
The plan involves permanently resettling Palestinians in other countries before initiating rebuilding efforts in the war-torn territory.
Mr. Rubio praised the vision as a bold departure from past approaches, although details on implementation remain sparse.
He stated, “It may have shocked and surprised many; however, we cannot continue the same cycle of repetition.”
However, the proposal has been met with resistance in the region.
Jordan and Egypt, named by President Trump as potential resettlement destinations for Palestinians, have rejected the idea outright.
Both countries are reportedly working with other Arab nations on a counterproposal that would allow rebuilding efforts within Gaza without displacing its residents permanently.
Regional Diplomacy and Broader Implications
Mr. Rubio engaged in talks with Israeli leaders, while Jordan’s Crown Prince Hussein and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi convened in Cairo.
They discussed alternatives to the US-backed resettlement plan, demonstrating a unified stance against forced displacement.
These discussions reflect broader regional opposition. Additionally, they highlight ongoing efforts aimed at finding a sustainable solution to Gaza’s humanitarian crisis.
The fragile state of the ceasefire has also drawn international criticism. While Israel has condemned Hamas’ treatment of Israeli hostages, it faces accusations of double standards over its own handling of Palestinian prisoners. Reports of alleged beatings and neglect in Israeli jails have fueled tensions further.
Meanwhile, Hamas continues to accuse Israel of undermining humanitarian aid efforts in Gaza, complicating negotiations for a longer-term truce. Despite these challenges, mediators remain committed to advancing talks this week.
Outlook
With phase one of the ceasefire nearing its expiration date, pressure is mounting on both sides to reach an agreement that ensures the release of remaining hostages and addresses Gaza’s broader humanitarian needs. However, deep-seated mistrust and conflicting visions for Gaza’s future present significant obstacles.
As negotiations resume, regional stakeholders and international mediators will need to navigate a complex web of political, security, and humanitarian concerns to prevent a return to open conflict. For now, the path forward remains uncertain, with both sides bracing for what could be decisive weeks ahead in the ongoing crisis.
