Official announcements from Hamas or Israeli government, verified by major news outlets like BBC, CNN, or Al Jazeera

Israel Katz Warns Hamas of Intensified Strikes in Gaza Unless 100 Hostages Held for 14 Months Are Released

Jan 1, 2025, 04:59 PM

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz has issued a stern warning to Hamas, threatening intensified military action in Gaza if the group does not release the approximately 100 hostages it has held for 14 months and cease rocket attacks on Israel. Katz made these remarks during a visit to the southern Israeli city of Netivot, which was targeted by two rockets from Palestinian militias the previous night, causing no damage or injuries. He stated that if Hamas fails to allow the release of the hostages soon, despite Israel's willingness to make significant compromises as outlined by the U.S. President, and continues to fire at Israeli communities, it will face 'blows with a force not seen in Gaza for a long time.' Katz also called on the people of Gaza to rise up against Hamas, accusing the group of using civilians as human shields.