Israel demands Hamas surrender or face total destruction.
Israel’s Defense Minister issued a stark ultimatum to Hamas, demanding the group lay down arms or face annihilation as military operations intensify around Gaza City. With continuing airstrikes, Israel aims to capture the city and defeat Hamas after a protracted conflict. U.S. President Trump also warned Hamas to accept a deal for hostage releases, asserting that failure to comply would have severe consequences. While Hamas expressed readiness for negotiations, its demands for a ceasefire and withdrawal from Gaza appear unchanged. This ongoing cycle of violence underscores the complexities of achieving a sustainable resolution amidst escalating military actions and humanitarian concerns.