In a decisive announcement, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu asserted that Israel will persist in its military campaign in Gaza until all its objectives are met. Speaking at a government meeting in Tel Aviv, Netanyahu declared that Israel would not yield to any demands to secure the release of over 130 hostages held in Gaza, setting a firm tone ahead of Hamas’ anticipated response to a recent agreement framework discussed in Paris.
Addressing concerns about potential concessions, Netanyahu emphasized, “Efforts to free our abductees continue constantly. We will not agree to any deal, and not at any price. Many things that are said in the media as if we agreed to them, such as what is related to the release of terrorists, we simply will not agree to.”
With reports hinting at Hamas possibly requesting the release of Palestinians imprisoned for killing Israelis, Netanyahu reaffirmed Israel’s stance, stating, “The key used in the last hostage release deal should be the point of reference for future negotiations.”
Netanyahu clarified that Israel’s commitment to its objectives remains steadfast, echoing, “We will not end the war before we complete all of its goals: the elimination of Hamas, the return of all our hostages, and ensuring that Gaza will no longer pose a threat to Israel.” The prime minister also underscored the importance of maintaining the conditions set during the previous week-long pause in hostilities, signaling a strategic approach to future negotiations.