Israel Prepared to Act if Hamas Rejects Ceasefire and Hostage Release

Israel is prepared to escalate its military operations if Hamas fails to accept a ceasefire agreement and release the hostages it continues to hold, warned Adam Boehler, the Trump administration’s former Special Envoy for Hostage Response, during an interview on CNN’s State of the Union on Sunday.

“If Hamas does not act towards a ceasefire and return the hostages, Israel is going to have to take some kinetic action,” Boehler stated, referring to the possibility of renewed military strikes and active warfare. He noted that Israel now has "a new sense of ability to get something done" after its recent and highly effective airstrike campaign against Iran.

Speaking with CNN’s Jake Tapper, Boehler discussed the status of ongoing negotiations, emphasizing that while there is optimism for a deal, Hamas has remained “very hard-headed.” He confirmed that the terror group has already been offered significant terms. “They have been offered many things that they should take, and it is time for Hamas to release the hostages,” he said, adding that Israel has been “bending over backwards” to reach an agreement.

Boehler also referenced the personal efforts of Steve Witkoff, the Trump administration's Middle East envoy, who has been “leaning in really closely on a deal” to bring the hostages home. Among those held by Hamas are American citizens, including Itay Chen and Omer Neutra, both of whom were murdered by the terror group. “We need to get those Americans out, we need to get the other hostages out,” Boehler said.

He warned Hamas that the current offer is the best it will get. “We have told Hamas that there is a firm pathway to negotiate peace, and that’s the best they are going to get. My recommendation to Hamas would be to take the deal that Israel and the US are offering, let’s get some people home, and let’s move to end this conflict.”

Boehler further noted that each time Hamas rejects a deal, the terms worsen. “Every time that they have not, the offer goes down,” he stated, suggesting that Israel’s patience is nearing its limit.

As Israel continues to fight for the return of its hostages and the security of its people, its determination remains unwavering. Share this story or subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed about Israel’s fight for peace and justice.