Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has declared that hopes for a partial ceasefire and a deal to release hostages held by Hamas have come to an end.
In an interview with i24 News, cited by the Times of Israel, Netanyahu also referenced U.S. President Donald Trump’s statement that Hamas is not ready for an agreement.
“You heard President Trump,” Netanyahu said when asked if a ceasefire and the release of hostages remain possible. “I think it’s behind us. We’ve done everything. It’s clear to us now that they are simply deceiving us. Many hostages, both dead and alive, will remain in their hands.” He added that he wants all hostages returned, “both the living and the fallen.”
Netanyahu also announced that Israel will allow residents of the Gaza Strip to leave if they wish, noting that this practice has been followed during other conflicts in Syria, Ukraine, and Afghanistan. He urged other countries wishing to assist Palestinians to “open their doors” to host them.
Meanwhile, the Israeli military is preparing for a broader ground offensive, further escalating tensions in the region.
In the same interview, Netanyahu spoke of his commitment to a “historic and spiritual mission” and his vision for a “Greater Israel” — a concept encompassing various territories, including a future Palestinian state and areas currently part of Jordan and Egypt. The term was first used after the Six-Day War in 1967 and has sparked significant political and international debate.
The situation in the Gaza Strip remains highly volatile, as Israel and Palestinian factions enter a critical phase of the conflict that is severely impacting civilians on both sides.
