Jerusalem: On Wednesday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu revealed that Hamas has rejected all aspects of a proposed ceasefire in Gaza, which was intended to facilitate the release of hostages. Netanyahu expressed frustration, hoping for a change in Hamas’ stance but casting doubt on the potential for a breakthrough.
“Hamas has rejected everything… I hope that changes because I want those hostages out,” Netanyahu stated at a news conference. His comments came just a day after the State Department urged for a finalization of the ceasefire deal.
Netanyahu reported that efforts to start negotiations have been stymied by Hamas, which has reportedly declared that there is “nothing to talk about.” He emphasized that retaining control over the Philadelphi Corridor, which borders Egypt, is non-negotiable for Israel.
The corridor has become a major sticking point in the negotiations. Hamas demands a complete Israeli withdrawal from the area, which Israel argues is crucial to prevent smuggling of weapons and personnel. Netanyahu reiterated his position, stating that giving up control would allow Hamas to continue its operations.
“Somebody needs to be there to squeeze them, to prevent them from smuggling and to pressure them into releasing the remaining hostages,” Netanyahu asserted. He believes controlling the Philadelphi Corridor is essential for achieving these goals.
State Department spokesman Matthew Miller acknowledged Israel’s security concerns regarding the corridor but suggested there are ways to address these issues without an outright withdrawal. He called for flexibility from both Israel and Hamas to reach a deal.
Netanyahu maintained that he is willing to be flexible where possible but firm on key issues. He noted that the Philadelphi Corridor is not the only unresolved issue, pointing to disagreements over the number of Palestinian prisoners to be released, potential Israeli vetoes, and the locations for released prisoners.
The October 7 Hamas attack resulted in the deaths of 1,205 people, including hostages, according to Israeli figures. Out of 251 hostages initially seized, 97 remain in Gaza, with 33 confirmed dead. A one-week truce in November led to some releases, but the situation remains dire.
Israel’s military response has resulted in significant casualties, with at least 40,861 reported dead in Gaza, mostly women and children, as per the Hamas-run health ministry. This has led to increased criticism of Netanyahu from both domestic and international quarters.
Critics argue that Netanyahu’s refusal to make necessary concessions for a ceasefire has contributed to the continued suffering. US President Joe Biden has also suggested that Netanyahu may not be exerting enough effort to secure the release of hostages.
On Wednesday, Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir intensified pressure on Netanyahu, advocating for the cessation of ceasefire talks and harsher measures against Hamas. “A country whose six hostages are murdered in cold blood does not negotiate with the killers,” Ben Gvir declared on X.