Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz issued a stark warning Wednesday: If Hamas fails to return all hostage remains and disarm, military operations in Gaza will resume "with full force". The ultimatum comes as fragile ceasefire negotiations hang by a thread 🤝➰.
Hamas recently returned two more hostage bodies but claims retrieving others requires "specialized equipment" due to Gaza’s war-torn landscape. While 20 living hostages were exchanged for 2,000 Palestinian prisoners this week under a U.S.-brokered deal, eight deceased captives’ remains have been recovered – far fewer than Israel demands 🕊️⚖️.
"We’re prepared to completely dismantle Hamas if they break this agreement," Katz stated, revealing military plans for a "total defeat" strategy. The threat follows Hamas’ armed wing declaring they’ve "fulfilled current commitments" and need heavy machinery to locate remaining bodies 🔍💔.
The standoff intensifies pressure on PM Benjamin Netanyahu, with far-right ministers threatening to block Gaza aid until all remains are returned. As global eyes watch, the conflict’s next chapter could hinge on shovels and backhoes as much as bullets and bombs 🚜⚡.
