Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated his commitment on Monday, ahead of the Passover holiday, to secure the release of the remaining 133 hostages held in Gaza.

“In the days ahead, we will escalate military and diplomatic pressure on Hamas because this is the sole means to liberate our hostages and achieve victory,” Netanyahu declared as Israel prepared for the festival commemorating freedom.

Though Netanyahu did not provide specifics, some analysts speculate that he hinted at an imminent military operation targeting Hamas’s stronghold in Rafah, southern Gaza, near the Egyptian border.

Netanyahu stressed that international diplomatic efforts to secure hostage release had faltered due to Hamas’ refusal to cooperate.

“Hamas has adamantly rejected all proposals for releasing our hostages,” Netanyahu remarked. “Instead of compromising, Hamas is banking on discord among us, emboldened by pressure directed at Israel’s government, thereby hardening its stance on hostage release.”

The prime minister likened the obstinance of Hamas to the biblical tale of the Egyptian pharaoh’s refusal to release Israelites from bondage.

Families of the hostages voiced concerns over their dwindling chances of survival. Some reports have suggested that only 40 hostages remained alive, indicating a significant loss of life. However, Israel’s intelligence agency, Shin Bet, has dismissed the reports as inaccurate speculation.

While most hostages are believed to be held in Rafah, an area fully controlled by Hamas, concerns arise over civilian casualties in the event of an Israeli military operation. Despite opposition from Western allies, Israel has pledged to evacuate civilians before any offensive.

Jerusalem argues that allowing a quarter of Hamas’s forces to endure poses a threat to Israel’s security, as top Hamas leaders have openly endorsed past attacks and advocate for Israel’s destruction.

In March, Israeli Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer affirmed Israel’s determination to confront Hamas in Rafah, even if it means facing international opposition.