Netanyahu Rejects Hamas Demands for Ceasefire, Citing Threat to Israel and Continued Hostage-Taking
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu refused to meet Hamas' demands for an end to the Gaza war in exchange for hostage release, stating that it would keep Hamas in power and pose a threat to Israel.
Netanyahu expressed willingness to pause fighting for hostage release but criticized Hamas for demanding an end to the war and the removal of Israeli forces from Gaza.
He warned that Hamas would continue committing massacres, rapes, and kidnappings if given power.
In Cairo, Hamas leaders continued negotiations with Egyptian and Qatari mediators for a truce in the ongoing conflict between Hamas and Israel.
No progress was reported as Hamas insisted any agreement must end the war in Gaza.
The conflict began on October 7 when Hamas attacked southern Israel, resulting in 1,200 deaths and 252 hostages taken, according to Israeli tallies.
Israel's military response has killed over 34,600 Palestinians and devastated Gaza, causing a humanitarian crisis.