Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that a ceasefire with Hamas is not close, despite U.S. optimism over a deal. He mentioned that his red lines have become “redder” after six hostages were killed in Gaza. The U.S. official had previously mentioned that a deal was “ninety percent” agreed, but Netanyahu called this inaccurate and blamed Hamas for wanting Israeli forces out of Gaza so they can retake control.
Netanyahu has insisted that Israel must maintain a military presence in the Philadelphi corridor to prevent smuggling of weapons into Gaza, despite diplomatic pressure and domestic protests. The U.S. official revealed that Israeli negotiators had proposed reducing their presence along the corridor as part of the agreement, but disagreements remain.
The hostage killings have complicated negotiations, causing anguish for families waiting for their release. Moreover, fewer hostages remaining means fewer Palestinian prisoners being released in exchange. The urgency brought on by the killings has questioned Hamas’s willingness to make a deal.
Israel’s foreign minister and right-wing National Security Minister expressed doubts about the negotiations following the hostage killings. Hamas accused Netanyahu of trying to thwart negotiations by insisting on keeping troops in the Philadelphi corridor. The conflict has resulted in thousands of deaths and injuries on both sides, with over 100 hostages still believed to be held in Gaza.
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