Israel Increases Pressure on Hamas Following Hostage Deal Rejection

Hamas has rejected Israel's latest ceasefire and hostage exchange proposal, which included a demand for the disarmament of Hamas and other militant groups in Gaza. The proposal would have started with the release of ten living hostages, including US-Israeli citizen Edan Alexander, in exchange for a 45-day ceasefire and the release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners. Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Netanyahu and Defense Minister Katz, have stated that military pressure on Hamas will continue, arguing that such pressure is necessary to drive negotiations forward and potentially secure the hostages' release. The IDF has indicated it is limiting its combat operations to create conditions favorable for a hostage deal, while also preparing for a potential major offensive if talks fail. Meanwhile, Palestinian and Israeli sources report ongoing violence and civilian casualties in Gaza, amid stalled ceasefire negotiations. Both sides remain far apart, with Hamas insisting on a permanent end to the war as a condition for any agreement.