Defense Minister Katz Instructs IDF to Prepare for All Scenarios Following Hamas’s Hostage Release Postponement

JERUSALEM – Defense Minister Israel Katz has strongly condemned Hamas’s decision to postpone the release of Israeli hostages, calling it an “outright violation of the ceasefire.” The announcement by the terror group, which came amid ongoing tensions and ceasefire discussions, has prompted Katz to instruct the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to prepare for any potential scenarios in Gaza.

“I instructed the IDF to prepare at the highest level of alert for any possible scenario in Gaza and to protect the [border] communities,” Katz said, reinforcing Israel’s commitment to ensuring the safety of its citizens. “We will not return to the reality of October 7,” he added, referencing the deadly Hamas attack that resulted in the deaths of many Israelis and the abduction of hostages.

Katz’s statement underscores the government’s firm stance against Hamas’s actions and its resolve to maintain national security in the face of continuing threats.