Netanyahu Warns Ceasefire Ends If Hostages Not Released By Saturday

Palestinian militant groups in Gaza have announced plans to release hostages Iair Horn, Sagui Dekel-Chen, and Alexandre Sasha Troufanov as part of a ceasefire negotiated with Israel, following mediation efforts by Egypt and Qatar. However, tensions are rising between Hamas and Israel over the terms of the ceasefire, particularly regarding aid deliveries and prisoner releases. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has warned that the ceasefire will end if hostages are not returned by Saturday, a condition echoed by U.S. President Donald Trump. A Hamas official indicated that the return of hostages is contingent upon adherence to the ceasefire, rejecting threats from Trump. Despite ongoing releases, Hamas has paused further actions, citing violations by Israel, while Netanyahu remains committed to retrieving all hostages. The fragile ceasefire is critical for regional stability, prompting urgent diplomatic efforts to resolve the escalating tensions.