The office of Israeli Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu formally declared on Tuesday evening that negotiations concerning the second phase of the ceasefire agreement with the Hamas terrorist organization have come to a halt.
As part of the ceasefire deal, Hamas had committed to returning the Israelis it abducted during the massacre on October 7. In exchange, Israel agreed to free terrorists from its prisons, including those serving life sentences. Additionally, Israel paused its military strikes on Hamas positions in Gaza and withdrew from strategic areas, such as the Netzarim Corridor.
A diplomatic insider explained that discussions on further measures, including more territorial withdrawals and concessions by Israel, were suspended after Hamas breached the terms of the agreement. This second phase was intended to secure the release of additional hostages, including young men. The source stated, “Therefore, there will be no progress on continuing to implement the deal and on negotiations for the second stage without the return of our hostages.”
“The Cabinet expects the release of all nine hostages from the first stage, within a few days,” the source emphasized. The nine individuals are elderly, ill, or wounded men. Meanwhile, the remains of eight hostages, who were either women, elderly, or injured, are also expected to be transferred back during this phase.
Prime Minister Netanyahu addressed the situation after the Cabinet meeting, stating, “In light of Hamas’ announcement regarding its decision to violate the agreement and not to release our hostages, last night I instructed the IDF to build up forces within and around the Gaza Strip. This action is now being carried out. It will be completed in the very near future.”
He added, “The decision that I passed unanimously in the Cabinet is this: If Hamas does not return our hostages by Saturday afternoon, the ceasefire will end, and the IDF will return to powerful fighting until Hamas is completely defeated.”
Minister Eli Cohen, a member of Israel’s Diplomatic-Security Cabinet, made clear during an interview with Galei Israel on Tuesday morning that Israel would not give in to Hamas’ attempts to coerce the government through threats.
“Whoever thought that they could blackmail the State of Israel with such tricks and other things – it will not happen,” Cohen declared.
Cohen further mentioned that Israel has aligned with former US President Donald Trump’s stance on the immediate release of all hostages.
“The Cabinet’s position is identical to that of the US President: The return of all hostages and bodies on (sic) Saturday – or hell,” Cohen remarked.
He hinted at a possible renewal of military operations if Hamas did not comply. “We will adhere to Trump’s words and adopt them,” he asserted. “I see Hamas’ announcement that they will not keep the agreement as a clear violation of the agreement.”
The Diplomatic-Security Cabinet had convened earlier on Tuesday following Hamas’ refusal to return any hostages by the weekend. The Cabinet members expressed full support for Trump’s ultimatum, demanding that all hostages be freed by noon on Saturday, as well as his proposed plan for Gaza’s future after the conflict.
{Matzav.com Israel}
Keep out, Israel. Give Trump the honor of fighting with Hamas.