VFI News Israel Warns Hostage Deal Unlikely as Hamas Escalates Tensions

Israel Warns Hostage Deal Unlikely as Hamas Escalates Tensions . . .

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There is growing pessimism in Israel regarding the possibility of reaching an agreement for the release of hostages and a ceasefire, reports indicate. A diplomatic source involved in the details of the negotiations warned that "the talks are in the process of collapsing."

"From Israel's perspective, a partial agreement is not on the table," the source clarified. "Now, due to Hamas's refusal, the prospect of securing the release of hostages through an agreement seems out of sight. Israel is preparing to intensify the campaign to defeat Hamas."

According to reports, senior members of Hamas have withdrawn from talks and moved to Turkey, as international pressure on Israel mounts due to an alleged starvation crisis in Gaza. Meanwhile, footage from Gaza markets suggests a discrepancy between Hamas's claims of famine and the reality on the ground.

Israeli officials argue that allowing humanitarian pauses undermines leverage in negotiations, giving Hamas key concessions without reciprocation.

(INN/VFI News)

“Lord, we lift up the hostages and their families. We ask that You grant the families strength and comfort as they wait for news of their loved ones. We pray for the safe return of every captive and ask for Your wisdom to guide Israel’s leaders in their decisions during this time of uncertainty.”

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivered a firm response to Hamas's hostage videos, accusing the terror group of starving captives "like the Nazis starved the Jews." Netanyahu vowed that Israel would not be broken by psychological warfare and would intensify efforts to defeat Hamas and rescue all hostages.

He urged international organizations, including the Red Cross, to take immediate action and provide aid to hostages suffering brutal conditions. Netanyahu stressed that the world cannot stand idly by while Hamas violates international law and commits atrocities against innocent civilians.

(INN/VFI News)

"He upholds the cause of the oppressed and gives food to the hungry. The Lord sets prisoners free." – Psalm 146:7

US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee criticized Hamas and Western media for spreading misinformation about the humanitarian situation in Gaza. Speaking on Salem Radio ahead of his visit to inspect aid efforts, Huckabee explained that President Trump requested firsthand reporting on the crisis.

Huckabee accused Hamas of diverting billions in humanitarian aid to build terror tunnels rather than helping civilians. He stated that the underground tunnel network in Gaza is larger than the London Underground, built with misappropriated aid funds. Huckabee also claimed that major Western media outlets amplify Hamas propaganda, presenting outdated or manipulated images of suffering while ignoring aid deliveries from the US and allies.

He described anti-Israel sentiment as rooted in antisemitism and a deeper spiritual issue: "If you're angry at God, it is natural to direct animosity toward the Jewish people, who have represented God on earth for millennia." Huckabee concluded by defending Israel's actions and stressing that the crisis would end if Hamas surrendered and released all hostages.

(INN/VFI News)

"The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." – Psalm 34:18

As part of Operation Gideon’s Chariots, IDF Givati Brigade troops, working with Yahalom unit soldiers, discovered and destroyed a terror tunnel in Beit Hanoun, approximately 5 km from the Ashkelon-Sderot railway line. The tunnel, about 2 km long, contained living quarters and weapons used by Hamas operatives, including AK-47 rifles and explosives.

The IDF eliminated several terrorists and dismantled above- and below-ground infrastructure in the area, aiming to secure vital transport routes and prevent future attacks. The operation is part of Israel's broader strategy to dismantle Hamas's operational capabilities and ensure long-term security for border communities.

(INN/VFI News)

“Almighty God, we pray for the safety of Israel’s soldiers as they confront terrorism on the front lines. Protect them from harm, grant them courage and wisdom, and bring swift success in dismantling threats to the nation of Israel.”

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Dutch politician Geert Wilders reaffirmed his support for Israeli hostages held in Gaza, stating that "victims don't hold hostages, savages do." He called out European leaders for appeasing Hamas and criticized international hypocrisy in failing to pressure Hamas for the captives' release.

Wilders recently left his country’s governing coalition over immigration policy disputes but continues to voice strong support for Israel. His comments add pressure on European leaders to clarify their stance on terrorism and hostage-taking.

(JPost/VFI News)

"Rescue those being led away to death; hold back those staggering toward slaughter." – Proverbs 24:11

French President Emmanuel Macron condemned recent hostage videos released by Hamas and Islamic Jihad as evidence of "limitless inhumanity." The footage showed hostages in visibly deteriorating condition, prompting widespread outrage.

Despite his condemnation of Hamas, Macron reaffirmed plans to recognize a Palestinian state next month. Israeli leaders criticized the move, warning that it rewards terrorism and risks creating another Iranian proxy on Israel's borders. Macron insists a two-state solution remains essential for lasting peace, demanding demilitarization of Hamas and recognition of Israel by a future Palestinian state.

(INN/VFI News)

“Lord, we pray for wisdom for world leaders making decisions that impact Israel and the Middle East. May they discern truth from lies and act justly, supporting measures that promote peace and safeguard innocent lives.”

The University of Michigan has filed formal complaints against 11 students who participated in anti-Israel protests on campus last year. The students are accused of obstructing police, refusing to vacate restricted areas, entering events under false pretenses, defying police orders, and being involved in a physical altercation.

Several students confirmed to local media that they had been summoned for hearings by the university’s Office of Student Conflict Resolution. University officials stated that while protests are permitted, actions that disrupt university operations or threaten public safety will not be tolerated. Kay Jarvis, the university’s public affairs director, emphasized that the university will enforce policies to ensure safety and inclusivity for all students.

This incident reflects a growing wave of campus antisemitism since the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. In September, a 19-year-old Jewish student was attacked by a group of males after admitting he was Jewish, highlighting ongoing security concerns on campus.

In February, the university suspended the pro-Palestinian Arab student organization Students Allied for Freedom and Equality (SAFE) for violating conduct standards, part of an ongoing effort to address hate-driven incidents.

(INN/VFI News)

“Abba, we pray for the Jewish and Israeli students on university campuses and ask for Your divine protection over each one. We pray that no anti-Israel and antisemitic demonstrations will be allowed on campuses and that Jewish students will feel safe. In Yeshua’s name we pray”.

A new Channel 12 survey revealed that 56% of Israelis fear they may not be able to travel overseas due to growing anti-Israel sentiment worldwide. The poll reflects mounting concern as high-profile anti-Israel incidents against Israeli tourists have increased in Europe and beyond.

Recent incidents include an Israeli tourist being assaulted on a beach in Athens, where the attacker bit part of his ear off while shouting anti-Israel slogans. Days earlier, Israeli teenagers were harassed on the Greek island of Rhodes, and an Israeli-owned cruise ship was blocked from docking at Syros due to a large anti-Israel protest.

The poll also found 67% of respondents feel that the government does not represent their will, with 62% supporting a comprehensive hostage-ceasefire deal. Meanwhile, only 28% favored intensifying military operations, and just 4% backed a partial deal to release some hostages.

Further, 49% opposed establishing settlements in Gaza, and the survey revealed widespread dissatisfaction with senior Israeli leadership, including Prime Minister Netanyahu, Defense Minister Katz, and Finance Minister Smotrich. A recent controversial appointment of Likud MK Hanoch Milwidsky, under investigation for serious crimes, to chair the Knesset Finance Committee, was opposed by 70% of respondents.

(INN/VFI News)

“Lord, we pray for safety and protection over Israelis traveling abroad amid rising hostility. We ask for peace in the hearts of nations, wisdom for Israel’s leaders, and a breakthrough in negotiations that will lead to justice, safety, and freedom for all hostages.”

The suggestions, opinions, and scripture references made by VFI News writers and editors are based on the best information received.

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