The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) are preparing for possible military action as attempts continue to free all the hostages, army chief Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi said on Saturday. His remarks followed Hamas’s release of three hostages in the morning, despite previous threats to hold them back because of a reported ceasefire breach by Israel. Halevi reiterated the military’s determination to return all the hostages while preparing at the same time for offensive operations.
The situation has escalated after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a threat that Israel would continue its military operation if hostages were not released on schedule. His position has been backed by US President Donald Trump, who announced his complete support of whatever Netanyahu decides as far as Israel’s future actions are concerned. In a Truth Social post, Trump confirmed the release of the three hostages but insisted that Israel will now decide its next step. He reaffirmed that the US would support Israel’s action, reiterating his previous demand for cancellation of the ceasefire deal if Hamas did not free all hostages.
Three hostages released by Hamas Israeli-American Sagui Dekel-Chen, Israeli-Russian Sasha Trupanov, and Israeli-Argentinian Yair Horn were kidnapped in the course of the October 7 assault. Their release was made for 369 Palestinian prisoners. Before their surrender to the Red Cross, however, the hostages were marched onto a stage in the southern Gazan city of Khan Yunis and compelled to speak before a crowd.
The hostage ordeal continues to be an issue central to the conflict, with Israel considering its options for military action. While in negotiations, the threat of renewed violence hangs over both nations, with each refusing to back down on their insistence.
