March 18, 2025, New York, NY—The breakdown of the ceasefire in Gaza is not the result of diplomatic failure or military aggression—it is the direct consequence of Hamas’s refusal to release hostages and honor mediation efforts. We are deeply concerned for the fate of the remaining hostages in Gaza and the Palestinian residents who pay the price for Hamas’s ruthlessness. We stand with Israel as it takes necessary steps to dismantle the terrorist infrastructure threatening its citizens and everyone in the region.
Despite clear and viable mediation proposals facilitated by the United States, Hamas outright rejected two separate opportunities to extend the ceasefire in exchange for hostage releases. Israel agreed to the terms. Hamas refused. This reality cannot be ignored. A ceasefire is only sustainable when both parties act in good faith—Hamas has made it clear that it will not.
In the days leading up to the renewed hostilities, Hamas failed to release the hostages or accept U.S. proposals for extending the ceasefire. Having exhausted all avenues of engagement, President Trump gave Israel the green light to restart attacks on the U.S.-designated terrorist group.
Hamas used the ceasefire to strengthen its military capabilities and prepare for further attacks. Israeli intelligence confirms that Hamas exploited the pause in fighting to regroup, rearm, and reinforce its hold on Gaza. The renewed Israeli airstrikes targeted high-ranking Hamas officials directly responsible for orchestrating terror operations, eliminating five senior leaders, including key figures in Hamas’s security and intelligence network.
Israel has a duty to protect its citizens and secure the return of its hostages. No nation would tolerate an armed terror group dictating its security. The world must recognize that Hamas alone is responsible for prolonging this war. Calls for restraint should be directed at those who reject diplomacy, not at those defending themselves against relentless terrorism.
We urge global leaders and media organizations to acknowledge the truth: Hamas had a choice and deliberately chose war over peace. Until every hostage is safely returned, Israel has no option but to continue its defensive operations. Gaza’s residents also deserve peace and a future free from a terrorist organization that has shown little regard for their lives.
