Israel’s government has indicated that Hamas’s acceptance of a ceasefire and hostage deal is still far from meeting Israel’s conditions. Following the announcement by Hamas that it had accepted ceasefire terms proposed by Qatari and Egyptian mediators, Israel’s war cabinet maintained that their military operations in Rafah, southern Gaza, would continue. The Israeli government said the terms currently accepted by Hamas do not align with their demands, which focus on the return of hostages and security assurances.
Despite Israel’s reluctance to accept the current terms, they are sending negotiators to talk with mediators to explore possible agreements. However, the country has reiterated its commitment to ongoing military pressure on Hamas, especially in Rafah, to exert additional leverage for negotiations.
Hamas’s acceptance of the ceasefire proposal has caused varying reactions, with Palestinians celebrating in the streets and Israeli families of hostages urging the Israeli government to consider the ceasefire to bring their loved ones home. The response from Israel, however, remains steadfast on continued military operations while keeping negotiation channels open through Cairo.
The proposed ceasefire terms by Hamas call for a comprehensive ceasefire, withdrawal of Israeli forces, an exchange of hostages, reconstruction efforts, and the lifting of the blockade. Israel’s commitment to its military objectives, primarily to maintain pressure on Hamas, suggests ongoing military activities in Rafah, as noted by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) spokesperson Daniel Hagari. Meanwhile, internal debates within Israel’s government, driven by various political factions, highlight the complex dynamics surrounding the hostage crisis and the broader military strategy against Hamas in Gaza.
