Thu Feb 13 05:45:56 UTC 2025: ## Israel Threatens Renewed Gaza Conflict Over Hostage Release

**Jerusalem, February 13, 2025** – Tensions are rising in the Israel-Hamas ceasefire as Israel threatens to resume hostilities if Hamas fails to release the remaining hostages this weekend. Defense Minister Israel Katz warned that “all hell will break loose” if the planned Saturday release does not occur, echoing a similar threat from US President Donald Trump.

The dispute stems from Hamas’s accusation that Israel hasn’t fully met its commitments under the January 19th ceasefire agreement, specifically regarding the delivery of aid to Gaza. While a Hamas official reported “positive signals” regarding the release of three hostages, the group hasn’t received confirmation from Israel. An Egyptian official familiar with the negotiations indicated both sides are nearing an agreement, with Israel pledging to increase aid shipments. Israel maintains it’s fulfilling its obligations.

The current 42-day ceasefire involves a phased release of hostages taken during October’s conflict. Twenty-one have already been released, along with hundreds of Palestinian prisoners. The slow pace of releases, coupled with the emaciated condition of hostages released last week, has sparked outrage in Israel.

Adding to the complexity, US President Trump’s proposal to relocate Palestinians from Gaza to neighboring countries has further destabilized the fragile ceasefire. Jordan and Egypt have vehemently rejected this plan. Trump’s suggestion that Hamas release all remaining hostages at once has also increased pressure.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces pressure from both his political allies, who want the war to resume, and the Israeli public, who are demanding the deal be upheld. Negotiations for a second phase of the ceasefire, including a full Israeli troop withdrawal and the release of remaining hostages, have shown little progress. The situation remains highly volatile.

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