Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar warned on Monday that Israel would resort to military force if a ceasefire and prisoner exchange agreement is not reached in Gaza, reiterating Tel Aviv’s rejection of Hamas’s terms.

Speaking at a joint press conference with Austrian Foreign Minister Beate Meinl, Sa’ar stated, “We will use force if we do not reach an agreement in Gaza,” adding, “We will not accept Hamas’s conditions for ending the war while it continues to control Gaza.”

He noted ongoing diplomatic efforts, mentioning a proposal by U.S. mediator Steve Witkoff aimed at improving humanitarian conditions in Gaza—a plan Hamas has so far rejected. Sa’ar claimed the group is using Israeli captives “to impose its conditions” and acknowledged persistent gaps between the two parties.

Addressing broader political prospects, Sa’ar reiterated Israel’s position against the creation of a Palestinian state, saying such a move would “endanger the security of the State of Israel.”

Hamas Accuses Israel of Delaying Talks

Meanwhile, Hamas accused Israel of stalling negotiations. Taher al-Nunu, media advisor to Hamas leader Mahmoud Abbas, said contacts with mediators in Egypt and Qatar “have intensified in recent hours.” He emphasized the group’s willingness to reach a “comprehensive deal” that would include a permanent ceasefire, full Israeli military withdrawal from Gaza, entry of humanitarian aid, and a prisoner exchange.

Trump Pushes for Resolution

U.S. President Donald Trump has also weighed in, urging a deal to secure the release of Israeli captives. “Make a Gaza deal... and return the captives,” he wrote on his Truth Social platform on Sunday.

Israeli media reported that Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio recently held phone discussions with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer. According to these reports, preliminary understandings were reached to end the war in Gaza “within two weeks.”

Escalation and Humanitarian Crisis

Israel resumed military operations in Gaza following the collapse of a fragile truce in March. Israeli forces have expanded operations across the territory, particularly in the south, while calling for evacuations in northern areas. The government has also signaled its intention to maintain a military presence in newly occupied zones and continues to enforce strict limits on aid deliveries.

The conflict has caused a severe humanitarian crisis. According to the Gaza Ministry of Health, more than 56,500 people have been killed since the start of the war, the majority of whom were civilians.