Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared on Saturday that there would be no permanent ceasefire in Gaza until Hamas’ military and governing capabilities were dismantled. This statement follows U.S. President Joe Biden’s mention of an Israeli proposal for a three-phase ceasefire deal in exchange for the release of hostages by Hamas. Netanyahu reiterated Israel’s conditions for ending the conflict: dismantling Hamas’ military and governance, releasing all hostages, and ensuring that Gaza no longer poses a threat to Israel. He emphasized that these conditions must be met before any permanent ceasefire is agreed upon.
Netanyahu’s firm stance echoes previous Israeli government positions during ceasefire negotiations, casting doubt on the feasibility of Biden’s proposed deal. In contrast, Hamas indicated its willingness to engage constructively with any proposal based on a permanent ceasefire, the withdrawal of Israeli forces, Gaza’s reconstruction, the return of displaced individuals, and a “genuine” prisoner swap, provided Israel commits to such terms.
