Netanyahu rejects a partial deal with Hamas regarding captives
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has made it clear that he is not prepared to halt the ongoing conflict with Hamas before achieving all of Israel's goals. The prime minister emphasizes the importance of maintaining Israeli security control over Gaza in any potential agreement[1][2].
Despite this firm stance, Israel has expressed a willingness to engage in a full deal involving a ceasefire and the release of hostages. However, Netanyahu has rejected partial agreements or temporary ceasefires that do not bring a comprehensive end to the conflict[1][2].
Recent proposals suggest that Hamas could agree to release half of the living Israeli hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners during a proposed 60-day ceasefire. Netanyahu has indicated that he is open to considering such deals but insists on a complete resolution, including sustained security guarantees[1][2].
Hamas has accepted a ceasefire proposal facilitated by Egypt and Qatar, but Netanyahu's stance remains unwavering. He believes that a partial ceasefire or incomplete deal is unacceptable[1][2].
In a move that suggests a shift in his position, Netanyahu now appears to have moved closer to the stance of Israel's Chief Negotiator, Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer. Dermer has urged Netanyahu not to make partial deals on hostages, but to seek a comprehensive agreement[1][2].
Anonymous sources close to the prime minister have reported that Netanyahu is willing to negotiate to end the war, but only if all hostages are returned. However, the prime minister has not publicly confirmed or denied these statements[1][2].
It is contextually assumed that the hostages referred to are those held by Hamas in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas.
[1] ANSA [2] The Times of Israel