Israeli PM Demands Hostage Release for Gaza Ceasefire

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has rejected US calls for a temporary ceasefire in the ongoing conflict with Gaza, stating that Israel will continue its offensive until the release of over 240 hostages held by Hamas. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken had urged Netanyahu to pause the military offensive to allow aid into Gaza and address concerns over civilian casualties. The Israeli offensive follows terrorist attacks by Hamas, resulting in thousands of Palestinian casualties. Meanwhile, clashes with Hezbollah along Israel's northern border have escalated, with the group's leader warning of an expansion of the conflict into Lebanon.