Defense Minister Israel Katz has warned Hamas that it should release the hostages it kidnapped during the October 7 massacre – or suffer the consequences.
Speaking at a ceremony in Holon marking the demolition of buildings damaged by an Iranian missile, Katz stated, “I say as clearly as possible, and I mean every single word. If Hamas does not release the hostages, the gates of hell will open on Gaza.”
He stressed, “Beyond what we are already doing with great force, we will do much more. We will protect the hostages and strike everything connected to Hamas until they are released. We will do whatever it takes.”
President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu are reported to be considering intensifying military operations, potentially encircling Gaza City or fully occupying the Strip. The goal of eliminating Hamas and returning the hostages remains as they go back to the drawing board to come up with new ways to secure their release. The second anniversary of October 7 is a little less than two months away. Unless a serious military move is made by Israel the job will not be finished.