Netanyahu Firm on Gaza Offensive: Rejects Hamas Demands Amidst Hostage Negotiations

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has unequivocally rejected Hamas's demands for a permanent ceasefire and the withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza, asserting that such concessions would leave the militant group intact and pose an existential threat to Israel. His statements come at a critical juncture, as international mediators intensify efforts to broker a new truce and secure the release of remaining hostages.

In a direct response to Hamas's proposed terms for a ceasefire deal, which were reportedly delivered to mediators earlier this week, Netanyahu stated that succumbing to these demands would be a monumental error.

He emphasized that the military offensive in Gaza will continue until all of Israel's war objectives are met: the complete elimination of Hamas's capabilities, the return of all hostages, and the assurance that Gaza will never again pose a threat to Israeli security.

Hamas's proposal reportedly included a three-phase plan, beginning with a pause in fighting, the release of some hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, and a significant increase in humanitarian aid.

However, the key sticking points for Israel were the demands for a permanent end to hostilities and the full withdrawal of Israeli forces, which Netanyahu views as a capitulation that would guarantee Hamas's survival and resurgence.

The Israeli leader has consistently maintained that only sustained military pressure will lead to the return of hostages and the dismantling of Hamas's infrastructure.

He faces immense pressure both internationally, to de-escalate the conflict and protect civilian lives, and domestically, from the families of hostages who demand their immediate return, as well as hardline factions within his government who oppose any concessions to Hamas.

Mediators from the United States, Qatar, and Egypt are working tirelessly to bridge the significant gaps between the two sides.

While there is a shared desire for a resolution, particularly regarding the hostages, the fundamental disagreements over the future of Gaza and the long-term status of Hamas remain formidable obstacles. Netanyahu's unwavering stance underscores the deep-seated security concerns driving Israel's actions and the complex, fraught nature of the ongoing negotiations.