Prime Minister Netanyahu: Conflict in Gaza Won't End with Ceasefire
In a statement to his cabinet, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that the ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip will persist even after a potential ceasefire. Netanyahu's objectives, as he put it, include eliminating the Hamas militant group, ensuring the safe return of all hostages, and eradicating any threat to Israel in the Gaza Strip.
According to reports, a draft agreement is under consideration, which includes a four-day ceasefire and the exchange of 50 Hamas hostages for at least 140 Israeli prisoners. The deal prioritizes the release of women and minors. Hamas had already given its consent to mediators in Egypt and Qatar, as announced earlier.
Although Israel's cabinet was considering the agreement, Netanyahu held firm on his belief that the Gaza Strip conflicts wouldn't end with a ceasefire. He aims to achieve Israel's goals, as stated, until complete victory is achieved.
However, Israel's proposed ceasefire and hostage exchange agreement with Hamas are different from these maximalist objectives. The agreement focuses on a phased release of hostages, gradual Israeli troop withdrawal, and the establishment of a verification mechanism to ensure compliance with ceasefire terms.
This stance constitutes a significant deviation from Netanyahu's objective of eradicating Hamas entirely and relying on a permanent withdrawal or reconstruction of Gaza under Hamas's control. Despite this more pragmatic approach, Israel continues to view Gaza as a security concern and is unlikely to withdraw its military presence entirely.
Sources: [1] [2] [3] [5]
