The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza has taken a new turn as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has made it clear that there will be no permanent ceasefire until Hamas’ military and governing capabilities are destroyed and all hostages are released.
This statement from Netanyahu comes in response to US President Joe Biden’s announcement that Israel had proposed a three-stage plan to Hamas aimed at reaching a permanent ceasefire. Hamas has indicated that it views the proposals positively, but there is no guarantee that a deal will be reached.
Fighting continues in Rafah, with reports of Israeli air strikes on Saturday in the city on Egypt’s border with Gaza. Netanyahu’s office reiterated that Israel’s conditions for ending the war have not changed, emphasizing the need to ensure that Gaza no longer poses a threat to Israel.
Biden described the Israeli proposal as comprehensive, with the first phase including a full ceasefire, withdrawal of Israeli forces from populated areas, and the exchange of hostages. The subsequent phases would involve the return of all remaining hostages and a major reconstruction plan with US and international assistance.
Hamas has demanded a total end to the conflict to engage in talks, while Netanyahu’s far-right allies have not yet responded to the proposal. However, influential opposition politician Yair Lapid has promised to support Netanyahu if he backs the ceasefire deal.
The conflict has taken a toll on Gaza, with over 36,000 people killed since the start of the war in October. As US, Israeli, and Egyptian officials prepare to meet in Cairo to discuss reopening the Rafah crossing, aid flows into Gaza remain restricted. The situation remains tense as both sides navigate the path to a potential ceasefire agreement.
