Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has rejected the idea of starting a ceasefire in Gaza while Hamas remains in power. This decision comes after The New York Times published an article citing six current and former security officials who believe a truce would provide Israeli troops with time to prepare for a potential land war with Hezbollah.
The officials, who mostly spoke anonymously to discuss sensitive security matters, also mentioned that a ceasefire could be the most effective way to secure the release of Israeli hostages. Former Israeli National Security Advisor Eyal Hulata, who maintains regular communication with senior military officials, expressed support for a hostage deal and ceasefire, stating that the military believes they can engage Hamas militarily in the future if needed.
Despite some officials suggesting that keeping Hamas in power temporarily in exchange for the release of hostages could be the best option for Israel, Netanyahu made it clear that the war will only end once all objectives, including the destruction of Hamas and the release of hostages, are achieved.
The situation in Israel's north remains tense, with increased cross-border attacks between the Israeli military and Hezbollah. The IDF acknowledges that a pause in Gaza could lead to de-escalation in Lebanon and provide more time to prepare for potential conflicts with Hezbollah.
When asked about supporting a truce, the IDF emphasized its determination to continue fighting to achieve war objectives, including destroying Hamas' capabilities, securing the release of hostages, and ensuring the safety of residents in the north and south.
Significant progress has been made in the fighting in Gaza, and the IDF plans to persist in combating Hamas in the Gaza Strip while enhancing war readiness in the north and maintaining defense efforts along all borders.
