Netanyahu threatens Gaza annexation amid hostages, protests

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reiterated threats to seize parts of Gaza if Hamas does not release the remaining Israeli hostages, following the resumption of military operations that ended a fragile ceasefire. Over the past week, Israeli airstrikes have resulted in at least 830 Palestinian casualties and displaced 142,000 people, as protests against Hamas have erupted among the population. Netanyahu stated that increased military pressure would be applied, warning that the hostages' situation could worsen if Hamas continues to refuse negotiations. Hamas responded by asserting that any military attempts to retrieve hostages could result in fatalities among them. The renewed violence comes as Israel seeks to negotiate terms for a ceasefire while Hamas demands discussions on a more permanent agreement. As protests against Hamas grow, Palestinians are expressing frustration over the militant group's actions amidst the ongoing conflict.