Netanyahu Insists on Hostage Release Before Considering Temporary Ceasefire in Israel-Hamas Conflict

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has communicated to visiting U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken that he opposes any temporary ceasefire in the conflict with Hamas unless it includes the release of Israeli hostages. Blinken, on his second visit to the Middle East in less than a month, aimed to strike a balance between supporting Israel in the wake of a deadly October 7 Hamas attack and addressing concerns about civilian casualties resulting from Israeli military operations.

During a news conference, Blinken called for a humanitarian pause, suggesting that it would facilitate the delivery of aid to Gaza and help secure the release of hostages, all while enabling Israel to achieve its objective of defeating Hamas. He highlighted various important issues that needed immediate attention, such as maximizing the flow of humanitarian assistance, linking the pause to hostage release, and preventing Hamas from exploiting these pauses for its advantage.

Shortly after Blinken's statement, Prime Minister Netanyahu made it clear that Israel would not accept a temporary ceasefire without the release of their hostages. He emphasized that Israel would continue its operations with full force. Netanyahu also expressed his determination to achieve a decisive victory, stating that it would be a lasting message for generations. He underlined that Israel's enemies sought to destroy the country but assured that they would not succeed. Israel's goals included destroying Hamas, securing the return of hostages, and ensuring the safety of its citizens and children. Netanyahu praised the dedication of Israeli soldiers, highlighting their continuous efforts in Gaza with close cooperation between the ground and air forces of the IDF.

Addressing concerns about potential escalation from other actors in the region, Netanyahu cautioned Israel's "enemies in the north" against making a costly mistake. He emphasized that such actions would come with a significant price. While Israel aimed to minimize the risk to its soldiers, it remained resolute in doing whatever was necessary to defeat its adversaries.

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