Netanyahu: Israel cannot accept Hamas’ condition for a ceasefire by ending the Gaza war
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday rejected Hamas’ demand to end the Gaza war in exchange for the release of hostages, stating that such an agreement would mean the group’s continued power in the Gaza Strip.
The Israeli Prime Minister added that his country is willing to pause the war in exchange for the release of hostages, but the continued presence of Hamas in the Gaza Strip is considered a threat to Israel.
It is estimated that the Hamas group still holds more than 130 people as hostages, who were abducted during the October 7 attack.
The Israeli Prime Minister’s remarks on Sunday came as Hamas leaders, for the second consecutive day, negotiated with Egyptian and Qatari mediators in Cairo regarding a ceasefire agreement. Reports indicate no progress has been made in these talks, as Hamas continues to insist on ending the Gaza war as part of any ceasefire agreement.