Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is rejecting the proposed ceasefire terms from Hamas, stating that “total victory” in Gaza is achievable within months.
This comes after Hamas presented a list of demands in response to an Israel-backed ceasefire proposal. Netanyahu described negotiations with Hamas as “not going anywhere” and referred to their terms as “bizarre”. He emphasized that “complete and final victory” is the only solution.
Despite Israel’s expected objection to Hamas’s counter-offer, their response is a clear rebuke, with Israeli officials deeming Hamas’s attempt to end the war on their own terms as utterly unacceptable. Hamas official Sami Abu Zuhri claims that Netanyahu’s remarks show his intent to continue pursuing the conflict.
Talks are set to continue as a new round of negotiations, mediated by Egypt and Qatar, is expected to take place in Cairo. At the same time, Egypt has urged all parties to demonstrate the necessary flexibility to achieve a peaceful resolution.
The proposed deal by Hamas includes a 135-day pause in fighting, prisoner exchanges, and increased deliveries of food and aid to Gaza. The conflict has resulted in a significant death toll, with around 1,300 people killed in Hamas attacks on southern Israel and over 27,700 Palestinians killed and at least 65,000 injured by Israel’s response.
Netanyahu also confirmed that Israeli forces have been ordered to prepare to operate in the southern Gaza city of Rafah, which has led to concerns about a potential humanitarian crisis. The US has been pushing for a deal, but Netanyahu’s rejection of the ceasefire terms underscores the fundamental differences between the US and Israel’s plans for Gaza’s future.
The urgent question now lies in salvaging the talks to achieve significant humanitarian relief for Gaza. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen whether both parties can reach a peaceful resolution amidst the ongoing conflict.
