Jerusalem: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to convene a critical security meeting tonight to deliberate on the continuation of the ceasefire with Hamas. This meeting comes in the wake of a stern warning issued by US President Donald Trump to the Palestinian movement, Hamas.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, the meeting will include key figures such as Defense Minister Yisrael Katz, Israel's Ambassador to the United States Yehiel Leiter, and leaders from various security services. The discussions are anticipated to address the ultimatum set by President Trump, which mandates Hamas to release all hostages or face the termination of the ceasefire in Gaza.
The Israeli Walla website has indicated that these consultations are scheduled to commence just as President Trump's deadline lapses. The ultimatum stipulates that Hamas must release all hostages it holds to maintain the ceasefire. Despite the gravity of the situation, Israel has yet to publicly declare its stance on adhering to this ultimatum.
President Trump has clarified that the decision regarding the timeline for hostage release resides with Israel. This follows the release of three Israeli hostages by Hamas earlier today, including an American citizen. Trump communicated via his platform "Truth Social" that the hostages appear to be in good health.
In a departure from Hamas's previous stance last week, where they threatened to delay the release of Israeli hostages, President Trump highlighted this change, noting: "This is different from their statement last week that they would not release any hostages." He further emphasized that "Israel will now have to decide what to do about the deadline set for the release of all hostages at 12 noon today."
President Trump assured that the United States will support Israel in whatever decision it makes regarding the ultimatum.