Speaking on May 5, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said an agreement to end the war in the Gaza Strip would help Hamas continue to hold power and pose a threat to Israel.
According to Mr. Netanyahu, Israel is ready to temporarily halt the fighting in the Gaza Strip to release the hostages still being held by Hamas. The number of hostages so far is believed to be more than 130 people.
“However, while Israel shows its readiness, Hamas still clings to extremist views, especially demanding that we withdraw all forces from the Gaza Strip, end the war and let Hamas take power,” the agency said. AFP news quoted Mr. Netanyahu.
“Israel cannot accept that,” Mr. Netanyahu declared.
Mr. Netanyahu’s position is very clear. That is, accepting Hamas’ request to end the war in exchange for hostages means “severe defeat” for Israel.
Therefore, Israel will continue to fight until it achieves all goals, including eliminating Hamas.
Also on May 5, Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh said the force wants to achieve a comprehensive ceasefire to end Israel’s offensive campaign, ensure Israel withdraws from Gaza and reach a child exchange agreement. believe.
Mr. Haniyeh also blamed Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu for “continuing aggression and expanding the conflict, while sabotaging efforts from mediators and different parties.
In the Egyptian capital Cairo, Hamas leaders held a second day of ceasefire negotiations with Egyptian and Qatari mediators.
There has been no clear progress so far as Hamas maintains its demand that any agreement lead to an end to the war in Gaza.
The conflict in the Gaza Strip began after a Hamas attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, which left 1,200 people dead and 252 hostages taken.
On the other side, Israel’s military campaign has killed more than 34,600 Palestinians. Fighting has devastated much of the coastal region and caused a humanitarian crisis.