- Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned of a potential return to war with Hamas if negotiations falter.
- Ceasefire agreement with Hamas to start Sunday at 8:30 a.m. local time.
- U.S. President Joe Biden and incoming President Donald Trump have backed Israel’s right to resume fighting.
- Israel to reinforce the Philadelphi Corridor along the Egypt-Gaza border and tighten security around Gaza.
- Netanyahu confirmed most of the 33 Israeli hostages to be released in the first phase of the agreement are alive.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced Israel’s readiness to return to war with Hamas “in new ways and with great force” if the current negotiations prove futile.
In a video address on Saturday evening, Netanyahu clarified that the ceasefire agreement, set to take effect Sunday morning, is a temporary measure. Both U.S. President Joe Biden and incoming President Donald Trump have affirmed Israel’s right to resume hostilities if needed.
Tightening Control Over Gaza and Hostage Updates
Netanyahu revealed plans to bolster military presence along the Philadelphi Corridor, the border between Gaza and Egypt, while deploying additional forces within Gaza. The objective is to prevent weapons smuggling into Gaza and thwart any attempts to smuggle hostages out.
The prime minister assured that most of the 33 Israeli hostages set for release in the agreement’s first phase are alive. These developments emphasize Israel’s continued vigilance even during the ceasefire.
