Statements from Israeli government, Hamas, or third-party negotiators like Egypt or Qatar.

Israel Refuses Gaza War End for Hostages, IDF to Demolish Hamas in Rafah

May 5, 2024, 11:22 AM

Israeli officials have consistently stated that Israel will not agree to end the ongoing Gaza war as part of any hostage deal with Hamas, and is determined to enter Rafah to demolish Hamas battalions. This stance has been reiterated by multiple sources, including statements to Haaretz and N12 News. Despite claims from Hamas and some reports suggesting potential negotiations involving a ceasefire in exchange for hostages, Israeli authorities, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, have clarified that while Israel is open to a temporary truce to secure the release of hostages, it will not cease its military objectives or withdraw forces permanently. Netanyahu emphasized that Israel's goals in the conflict must be achieved and dismissed any demands from Hamas that would equate to a surrender by Israel.