| Published May 12, 2025
Hamas can avoid Israel’s planned takeover of the Gaza Strip and secure humanitarian aid if the terrorist group signs on to a cease-fire framework pitched by US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff — but time is running out, Israel’s ambassador to the United Nations said Monday.
Israel issued a new ultimatum to Hamas, demanding the release of more than half of the 23 remaining hostages by the end of the week to avert a ground invasion of Gaza. Israeli UN Ambassador Danny Danon emphasized that failure to comply would result in a significant military operation aimed at recovering hostages and dismantling Hamas.
The proposed ceasefire, brokered by U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, includes provisions for humanitarian aid to enter Gaza through private entities, bypassing international organizations like the UN or Red Cross. This approach has faced criticism from human rights groups concerned about transparency and oversight.
Hamas recently released Edan Alexander, the last known American hostage, raising hopes for further releases. However, Israel has intensified airstrikes on Gaza, targeting 60 Hamas sites and resulting in the deaths of at least 23 Hamas members.
The situation remains tense, with Israel’s deadline coinciding with President Trump’s upcoming visit to the Middle East. The international community watches closely as diplomatic efforts continue to prevent further escalation.
Israeli tanks maneuver along the border with north of the Gaza Strip, as seen from southern Israel on March 18, 2025.AP
Implications of Israel’s Ultimatum to Hamas
1. Increased Risk of Full-Scale Conflict
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Potential Gaza Invasion: Israel’s ultimatum suggests that failure to meet its demands will result in a major ground invasion, risking a high number of casualties on both sides.
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Escalation of Hostilities: Even if some hostages are released, Israel’s aggressive military posture may lead to retaliatory attacks from Hamas, further intensifying the conflict.
2. Diplomatic Tensions and Global Reactions
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Strain on U.S. Relations with Arab Nations: As the U.S. supports Israel, American influence in the Middle East could weaken, especially among Arab states.
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International Criticism: Israel’s bypassing of UN and Red Cross channels for humanitarian aid may draw condemnation from human rights organizations.
3. Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza
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Worsening Conditions: Continued airstrikes and the threat of invasion could displace thousands of Gaza residents, exacerbating an already dire humanitarian situation.
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Aid Access Issues: The decision to route aid through private entities may reduce transparency and oversight, potentially leading to corruption or misuse.
4. Domestic and Regional Security Concerns
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Hamas Retaliation: The militant group may intensify rocket attacks or launch new kidnappings in response to Israeli actions.
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Regional Instability: Neighboring countries like Egypt and Jordan could face pressure to intervene diplomatically or deal with refugee inflows.
5. Diplomatic Opportunity Amid Crisis
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U.S. Mediation Role: Special Envoy Steve Witkoff’s involvement suggests an opportunity for the U.S. to act as a mediator, but success depends on both sides’ willingness to negotiate.
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Global Pressure on Hamas: The ultimatum may push international actors to pressure Hamas into releasing hostages to avoid further escalation.
Armed fighters from Hamas’ Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades during the handover of three Israeli hostages to Red Cross representatives in Al Nuseirat refugee camp in central Gaza in February.MOHAMMED SABER/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock
Overall Takeaway:
Israel’s ultimatum to Hamas marks a critical turning point in the Gaza conflict, with the threat of a ground invasion looming unless hostages are released. This development risks escalating violence, worsening Gaza’s humanitarian crisis, and straining international diplomatic efforts. While it pressures Hamas to make concessions, it also exposes Israel to global criticism, particularly over its bypassing of traditional humanitarian channels. The situation underscores the fragile balance between military action and diplomacy in the region.
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