Tel Aviv: Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz has delivered what he called a “final warning” to Hamas, demanding the release of hostages and the disarmament of the militant group or face the complete destruction of Gaza.

Katz’s Warning

In a post on X, Katz accused Hamas of hiding both in Gaza and abroad, declaring: “Release the hostages and put down your weapons — or Gaza will be destroyed and you will be annihilated.”

He added that the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) are continuing operations as planned and preparing to expand ground maneuvers aimed at bringing Hamas to a decisive defeat. In a separate message, Katz used a metaphor, saying: “Today, a powerful hurricane will strike the skies of Gaza City, and the roofs of the terror towers will…” — suggesting intensified military action.

US Pressure On Hamas

The warning came shortly after US President Donald Trump issued his own “last warning” to Hamas to accept a ceasefire and hostage release framework that Washington says Israel has already agreed to.

Posting on Truth Social, Trump wrote: “Everyone wants the hostages home. Everyone wants this war to end! The Israelis have accepted my terms. It is time for Hamas to accept as well. This is my last warning, there will not be another one.”

Escalating Crisis

The parallel ultimatums from Israel and the US mark a critical point in the conflict, with both governments insisting Hamas must comply or face severe consequences. The militant group has not yet formally responded to the warnings.

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