Return to war only delays release of captives, United Nations says

United Nations assistant secretary-general for the Middle East Khaled Khiari said on Thursday that the return to hostilities in Gaza threatens all civilians, including the remaining Israeli captives held there.

"With every passing day, we move further away from the objective of returning the remaining hostages safely to their homes," Khiari told a Security Council briefing.

Acting US Representative to the UN Dorothy Shea blamed Hamas for the resumption of hostilities by "refusing time and time again to accept proposals to extend the ceasefire".

"President Trump has been clear: Hamas must release all 59 hostages immediately - including American citizens - or pay a steep price," she said. "We continue to stand with Israel as they defend themselves and push to secure the release of all hostages from Hamas captivity."