** Israel Demands Release of Three Hostages by Saturday or War Resumes **
** The Israeli government has reaffirmed its demand for Hamas to release three hostages by Saturday, as per the terms of a ceasefire agreement. Failure to comply will result in the resumption of military actions, according to a statement from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office. This announcement follows two days of uncertainty triggered by comments from former U.S. President Donald Trump, who suggested that Israel should insist on the release of all hostages.
David Mencer, a spokesperson for Netanyahu, asserted that the agreed-upon framework necessitates the release of the three hostages. Earlier this week, Hamas indicated a possible delay in their release, but reports now suggest adherence to the original timeline. Mencer emphasized that Israel would assess the situation only after the hostages are back in Israeli territory.
Should Hamas violate the agreement, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have been instructed to resume intense military operations against Hamas, as tensions continue to mount in the region. Both domestic and regional responses to the ongoing situation remain charged.
**