Jerusalem, Israel – Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has stood firm in his decision to escalate military pressure on Hamas, rejecting the terror group’s offer for a permanent ceasefire in exchange for the release of all remaining hostages. Despite Hamas’ proposal to return 59 captives, including Israeli-American soldier Edan Alexander, Netanyahu declared in a televised address that Israel must continue fighting for its very existence until victory is achieved.
The ongoing conflict has resulted in the deaths of over 51,000 Palestinians, according to Hamas, since the war began. Netanyahu’s refusal to accept the ceasefire deal is based on his belief that ending the war under surrender conditions would send a dangerous message to Israel’s enemies.
Netanyahu’s determination to intensify military operations in Gaza has sparked criticism from both domestic and international observers. Critics accuse him of prolonging the conflict to deflect attention from the corruption charges he faces and to strengthen his political position. Despite mounting pressure to reach a resolution, Netanyahu remains steadfast in his resolve to not negotiate with Hamas on their terms.
The Israeli Defense Forces have been instructed to increase their efforts in Gaza, where the Hamas-controlled health ministry reports the deaths of over 1,600 Palestinians in the past month. The breakdown in ceasefire talks stems from Hamas’ insistence that any hostage release must be accompanied by a permanent cessation of hostilities, a condition Netanyahu has adamantly rejected.
As international efforts to resume negotiations continue, families of the remaining hostages, including Elkana Bohbot, express concerns over the prolonged captivity of their loved ones. The hostages, held by Hamas for 561 days, were seized by the group during the October 7 mass-murder attacks near the Gaza Strip, in an attempt to gain leverage over Israel.
Despite calls for a peaceful resolution to the conflict, Netanyahu’s uncompromising stance and Hamas’ refusal to back down indicate a prolonged period of uncertainty and continued hostilities between the two parties. The fate of the hostages and the desire for lasting peace hang in the balance as the conflict in Gaza shows no signs of immediate resolution.