Media: Israel prepares for escalation as ceasefire talks stall, Hamas refuses to release hostages

US President Donald Trump and his Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, have issued stark warnings, suggesting a return to war in the Gaza Strip unless Hamas releases its remaining hostages. Israel, now preparing for a possible escalation, has drafted a series of steps aimed at increasing pressure on Hamas, following stalled talks to extend a seven-week ceasefire. 

The steps, initiated last week, began with Israel blocking goods and supplies into Gaza. In the coming days, the measures may escalate to include cutting off water and electricity. If these actions fail, Israel could resort to airstrikes and tactical raids on Hamas targets, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.

According to Israeli security analysts, further escalation could lead to the displacement of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians and ultimately a large-scale military invasion to regain control of Gaza and eliminate Hamas.

“There’s a determination to go back in and finish Hamas no matter what happens,” said Michael Makovsky, president of the Jewish Institute for National Security of America. “I think Israel will go in tougher and stronger.”

The current impasse in negotiations has centered on Israel’s demand for the release of the remaining hostages, which Hamas has refused unless there is a permanent end to the fighting. Israel is offering to extend the ceasefire for a month in exchange for continued hostage releases, but Hamas insists on discussing a war-ending deal first.

Trump has become increasingly impatient with the deadlock, warning Hamas on social media, “If you don’t release all the remaining hostages in Gaza immediately, you are dead!”

Israeli security analysts believe that Israel is now better positioned for a large-scale invasion, with its ammunition stores replenished and military pressures eased by a ceasefire with Hezbollah. Despite the extensive damage to Hamas’ infrastructure, analysts believe the group can still endure another round of fighting, though the challenges of occupying Gaza remain formidable.

By Vafa Guliyeva