Israeli PM Netanyahu Firmly Rejects Hamas Ceasefire Terms, Refuses Release of 'Thousands of Prisoners'

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu firmly rejects Hamas' ceasefire terms, refusing to release 'thousands of terrorists.' Amidst domestic pressure, indirect talks include a proposed framework involving phased releases of hostages. Internal divisions surface, with some supporting any deal for hostage return, while others threaten government downfall. The conflict extends to the West Bank, escalating tensions.

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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has firmly rejected Hamas' proposed conditions for a ceasefire, steadfastly refusing to release what he referred to as 'thousands of terrorists.' The development emerged during indirect talks aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Palestinian militant group.

Netanyahu, speaking at an event on Tuesday, asserted that Israel would not withdraw its military forces from the Gaza Strip, emphasizing a commitment to achieving "complete victory" over Hamas and the safe return of all hostages. He stated, "We will not conclude this war without achieving all of its goals. This means eliminating Hamas, returning all of our hostages, and ensuring that Gaza never again constitutes a threat to Israel."

The rejection comes amidst mounting domestic pressure on Netanyahu from families of hostages, demanding a negotiated deal for the safe return of their loved ones. Netanyahu expressed concern that protests organized by these families in Gaza were inadvertently aiding Hamas.

Reports suggest that a framework for a ceasefire was discussed during a meeting in Paris involving Israel, the United States, Qatar, and Egypt. The proposed framework involves the gradual release of Israeli hostages, starting with vulnerable groups such as women, children, the elderly, and the sick. While the framework does not guarantee a permanent ceasefire, it leaves room for the possibility.

US officials have noted signs of progress in negotiations between Israel and Hamas, indicating a potential deal where over 100 hostages held in Gaza could be released in exchange for a pause in hostilities. Qatar's prime minister confirmed that a framework proposal had been developed for presentation to Hamas.

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However, Netanyahu faces internal divisions, with Opposition Leader Yair Lapid supporting any deal bringing hostages home, while National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir threatens to bring down the government if a perceived reckless deal is reached with Hamas.

As the diplomatic efforts continued, Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh stated that the group received the ceasefire proposal and would study it. Haniyeh's priority is to end Israel's military offensive and ensure a complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. In a related development, the conflict spilled into the West Bank as Israeli forces raided a hospital, resulting in international condemnation.

The broader context reveals a complex situation with geopolitical implications, requiring careful consideration and diplomatic maneuvering to reach a resolution in the Israel-Hamas conflict.