Israeli PM Acknowledges US Support, Warns of Future Actions Against Hamas
Tel Aviv [Israel], February 16: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed deep appreciation for US President Donald Trump’s leadership in securing the latest release of three Israeli hostages from Hamas captivity in Gaza.
Netanyahu’s office issued a statement crediting reinforcement of Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) positions around the Gaza Strip and Trump’s aggressive stance as key factors that pressured Hamas into releasing the captives.
“Prime Minister Netanyahu greatly appreciates President Trump’s leadership and the ongoing coordination with the United States,” the statement read.
🔹 Trump’s Warning & Israel’s Next Steps
Earlier, President Trump had warned Hamas to release all remaining hostages by noon on Saturday, failing which “all hell would break loose.” While three hostages were freed, Hamas did not comply with the full demand, leaving Israel to decide on its next course of action.
“Israel must now decide how to respond after Hamas failed to release all of the remaining hostages,” Trump said in a post on his social media platform, Truth Social.
In response, Netanyahu reaffirmed Israel’s right to take decisive action and stated that his political-security cabinet would meet urgently to strategize the next steps.
“Israel is working in full coordination with the United States to free all hostages, both living and deceased, as soon as possible,” Netanyahu’s statement added.
🔹 Netanyahu’s Personal Message to the Released Hostages
Welcoming the three freed hostages, Netanyahu assured them of full rehabilitation support after their long and excruciating period in captivity.
“Israel has been preparing for their return, and along with their families, will assist in their rehabilitation,” he said.
The Israeli PM also accused Hamas of attempting to violate the hostage agreement and creating a false crisis under false claims to manipulate negotiations.
🔹 IDF Strengthening Positions Amid Future Military Actions
As tensions remain high, Netanyahu warned of further military action, stating that Israel is “preparing with full intensity for what comes next, in every sense.” The IDF continues to reinforce its positions in and around Gaza, increasing speculation about possible escalations.
“The release of the hostages was made possible due to IDF’s presence inside the Strip and around it, as well as President Trump’s clear and unequivocal stance, which forced Hamas to back down,” Netanyahu’s statement emphasized.
With hostages still in captivity, and military operations ongoing, Israel is expected to announce its next course of action in the coming days.
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Israel Hamas Conflict, Netanyahu Thanks Trump, Gaza Hostage Release, IDF Operations, US Israel Relations, Hamas Ceasefire, Middle East Tensions, Hostage Crisis, Trump Warning to Hamas, Netanyahu Gaza Strategy