Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday reiterated his hardline approach towards Hamas, declaring that his government will not yield to what he described as its “unrealistic and extortionist demands” amid ongoing negotiations for a ceasefire and to free hostages held captive in Gaza.
At a press conference held in Jerusalem, Netanyahu stressed that Israel remains open to dialogue; however, any agreement which weakens Israel’s security or rewards Hamas will not be approved by them.
Netanyahu made his position clear. Israel will resist Hamas demands without giving in to terrorist demands and will continue its military and diplomatic efforts until all hostages have returned – at no cost of capitulating to terrorists.
His remarks came amid increasing domestic and international calls for a negotiated resolution of the months-old conflict, where hundreds of hostages still remain held by Hamas following their attack last October. Talks between Qatar and Egypt have produced little progress; both parties accuse one another of hindering progress.
Hamas is widely expected to seek an immediate ceasefire, mass prisoner releases and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza – demands which Prime Minister Netanyahu has labeled as being absurd.
Netanyahu also addressed recent demonstrations across Israel in which families of hostages and peace activists have demanded the government prioritize an agreement over military operations.
“I appreciate and share their anxiety,” he stated, “but our hostages’ freedom cannot be secured by succumbing to those seeking our destruction.
Opposition figures and security experts have sharply criticized Netanyahu’s stance, warning that its lack of flexibility could endanger captive lives further and prolong conflict unnecessarily.
Israeli forces continue to launch targeted strikes in Gaza that they say are intended to dismantle Hamas infrastructure, while humanitarian organizations warn that civilians in Gaza remain trapped and live increasingly precarious lives.
No matter the efforts of international mediation, both sides remain resistant to compromise.