Israel Deploys Troops in Gaza as Ceasefire Threatens to Collapse
Israel-Gaza Conflict: Netanyahu Mobilizes Troops Amid Ceasefire Uncertainty
Israel has deployed additional troops in and around Gaza as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warns of renewed military action if hostages are not released by Hamas by Saturday noon.
Tensions Rise as Ceasefire Hangs in the Balance
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ordered the military to reinforce its presence in the Gaza region, raising concerns that the fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas may soon collapse. The move comes after Netanyahu issued an ultimatum, stating that Israel would resume “intense fighting” if more hostages were not released by Saturday.
In a video statement on Tuesday, Netanyahu reaffirmed his commitment to defeating Hamas, saying, “The military will return to intense fighting until Hamas is finally defeated.” The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed they have deployed additional forces to southern Israel and mobilized reservists in preparation for a potential escalation.
Hamas Suspends Hostage Release, Citing Israeli Violations
The ceasefire agreement, which led to the release of 21 Israeli hostages last month, has been jeopardized after Hamas accused Israel of breaching its obligations. The Palestinian militant group claims Israel has delayed the return of displaced Palestinians to northern Gaza, conducted airstrikes in the enclave, and obstructed humanitarian aid deliveries.
In response to these alleged violations, Hamas suspended the scheduled release of three additional hostages, increasing fears of a renewed conflict. According to reports, there are still 76 hostages remaining in Gaza.
Trump Weighs In: “Let All Hell Break Out”
Former U.S. President Donald Trump has added pressure on the situation, warning that if all Israeli hostages are not freed by the weekend, he would support extreme military measures. Trump’s comments have intensified diplomatic discussions, with world leaders urging both sides to maintain the ceasefire and continue negotiations.
Humanitarian Crisis Deepens in Gaza
Despite ongoing tensions, humanitarian aid continues to arrive in the southern Gaza town of Rafah. The United Nations’ humanitarian chief, Tom Fletcher, stated that the influx of aid during the ceasefire has helped avert famine in Gaza. However, the humanitarian situation remains dire, with limited medical supplies and essential resources.
Gaza’s health ministry director, Munir al-Bursh, reported that at least 92 Palestinians have been killed and more than 800 wounded by Israeli fire since the ceasefire took effect. The Israeli military also confirmed striking two individuals in southern Gaza who were allegedly flying a drone, citing past attempts to smuggle weapons into the region.
Jordan Rejects Trump’s Proposal to Resettle Palestinians
Meanwhile, Jordan has firmly rejected former President Trump’s proposal to resettle Palestinians from Gaza and the West Bank. King Abdullah II reiterated Jordan’s “steadfast position against the displacement of Palestinians” after meeting with Trump, emphasizing that it remains a “unified Arab position.”
While Jordan has expressed willingness to accept up to 2,000 children from Gaza for medical treatment, it opposes any plan that could permanently displace Palestinian residents. Neighboring Egypt, along with Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar, has also dismissed Trump’s proposal, reaffirming their support for a two-state solution.
What Happens Next?
With the ceasefire on the verge of collapse, international pressure is mounting on both Israel and Hamas to reach a resolution. The coming days will be critical in determining whether peace negotiations continue or if full-scale military action resumes in Gaza.
