ERUSALEM — Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz issued a stark warning on Monday, declaring that Hamas must release all Israeli hostages or face devastating consequences.

“I mean every word,” Katz said during a press briefing. “If Hamas does not release the hostages, the gates of hell will open in Gaza.”

The comment comes amid mounting frustration in Israel over the continued captivity of hostages believed to be held by Hamas inside the Gaza Strip. While international mediators, including Egypt and Qatar, have pushed for a negotiated solution, Katz’s statement suggests that Israel may be preparing for a sharp escalation if progress is not made soon.

Military operations in southern Gaza have already intensified in recent days, with Israeli forces expanding ground operations and targeting what the IDF says are Hamas strongholds and tunnel infrastructure.

Israel has consistently maintained that any ceasefire or aid agreement must include the unconditional release of hostages, many of whom have been held since the October 2023 attacks.

In response, Hamas officials have accused Israel of using the hostage issue to justify continued military aggression, further complicating negotiations.

The situation remains volatile, and Katz’s warning signals that time may be running out for a diplomatic resolution.