Hostages in the Gaza Strip: The clock is ticking – what threatens now!

Hostages in the Gaza Strip: The clock is ticking – what threatens now!

Amid the tense situation in the Gaza Strip and the escalating conflict between Israel and Hamas, there are increasing voices warning of the possible end of the current ceasefire. U.S. special envoy Witkoff reported that he had held “productive and constructive” talks with Israel, Qatar and Egypt to advance a continued ceasefire and hostage exchange. This first phase of the ceasefire, which has been in effect since January 19, 2025 and is scheduled to end on March 1, has now been an urgent challenge for hostages held in Hamas's hands for 500 days. There are currently 73 hostages being held, with many believed to be dead, causing great concern among relatives. According to reporting by the Times of Israel, the relatives' forum is planning a mobilization to draw attention to the critical situation of the hostages.

Ultimatums and threats increase

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has given Hamas an ultimatum: If all hostages are not released by next Saturday afternoon, Israel will declare the ceasefire over and move back into the Gaza Strip. Netanyahu underlines that “intense fighting” will resume until Hamas is completely dismantled. Meanwhile, Israel is preparing for an upcoming delegation trip to Cairo to discuss the second phase of the agreement, according to Netanyahu's office. At the same time, tensions in Lebanon are being given new impetus by Hezbollah, whose leadership has issued an ultimatum calling on Israel to withdraw by February 18. However, the withdrawal date remains controversial, with Israel demanding an extension until the end of February.

The pressure on Hamas is increasing not only from Israeli demands, but also from US President Donald Trump, who is threatening a return to more aggressive measures if the remaining hostages are not released promptly. Trump emphasizes that Hamas bears sole responsibility for the escalation, further complicating the situation. Hamas has recently been forced to rethink its negotiating strategy as the release of further hostages has been suspended indefinitely, which is seen as an attempt by the organization to strengthen its negotiating position. Meanwhile, UN Secretary-General António Guterres is calling on both sides to fulfill their obligations in order to stabilize the ceasefire.