Israeli army tanks take position at the border between Israel and the Gaza Strip on May 29, 2025, amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant movement Hamas. (Credit: Jack Guez/AFP)
Israel's defense minister warned Hamas on Friday to accept a cease-fire proposal submitted by U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff "or be annihilated," after the group said the deal failed to satisfy its demands.
In a statement, Defense Minister Israel Katz said the military was acting in Gaza "with full force," adding: "The Hamas murderers will now be forced to choose: accept the terms of the 'Witkoff Deal' for the release of the hostages – or be annihilated."
Israel's defense minister warned Hamas on Friday to accept a cease-fire proposal submitted by U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff "or be annihilated," after the group said the deal failed to satisfy its demands.
In a statement, Defense Minister Israel Katz said the military was acting in Gaza "with full force," adding: "The Hamas murderers will now be forced to choose: accept the terms of the 'Witkoff Deal' for the release of the hostages – or be annihilated."
US military deployments in Middle East 'quietly' extended into 2027, WSJ reports
Iran retaliates with reported strikes on US targets, despite Trump threat