Is a Partial Ceasefire Deal Between Netanyahu and Hamas Now Impossible?
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Synopsis
In a recent statement, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that the opportunity for a partial ceasefire and hostage-release negotiation with Hamas has vanished. As the conflict escalates, Israel's military strategy is set to extend beyond Gaza City, raising concerns over the humanitarian impact on millions of civilians caught in the crossfire.
Key Takeaways
- Netanyahu believes a partial ceasefire with Hamas is now unlikely.
- Israel's military operations are set to extend beyond Gaza City.
- The humanitarian crisis in Gaza is worsening.
- The Israeli military recently targeted individuals posing as aid workers.
- World Central Kitchen's operations are being affected by the blockade.
Jerusalem, Aug 13 (NationPress) - Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed his belief that the chances for a partial ceasefire and hostage-release arrangement with Hamas are no longer viable.
In an interview with Israeli broadcaster i24 on Tuesday, Netanyahu stated that the prospect of achieving a partial agreement "is behind us." He dismissed claims from opposition leaders and former high-ranking military officials that he was stalling in the conflict, asserting that the primary objective remains to conclude the war, defeat Hamas, and secure the release of all hostages under a singular final agreement "on our terms."
"I'm not returning to partial agreements," he asserted, accusing Hamas of "deceiving" Israel, without providing further details, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
On Sunday, Netanyahu announced that Israel intends to broaden its military operations beyond Gaza City into the remaining areas outside its control, where the majority of the enclave's approximately 2 million residents have sought refuge amid deteriorating humanitarian conditions.
In a separate incident, the Israeli military reported on Tuesday that it had eliminated five "armed militants disguised as aid workers" near a vehicle marked with the emblem of the World Central Kitchen (WCK) during a drone strike last week in Deir al-Balah, central Gaza.
Drone footage revealed several individuals in yellow vests near a vehicle displaying the WCK's emblem. The military claimed these individuals posed a threat to Israeli forces, even though no soldiers were visible in the footage and the men were not seen directing their rifles at anyone.
The military described the event as "an attempt to mask their actions and evade targeting," adding that Israel's Gaza District Coordination and Liaison Office has corroborated the information with the WCK, which confirmed that the vehicle is not associated with its operations.
However, no official statement has been issued by the WCK, an international humanitarian organization active in Gaza since the outset of the Israeli offensive in October 2023, providing meals and bread. Its operations have been severely hampered by shortages stemming from the Israeli blockade. There has been no immediate comment from Hamas as well.
Point of View
It is crucial to remain objective and report on the complexities of the ongoing conflict. The recent statements from Prime Minister Netanyahu highlight the shifting dynamics of negotiations with Hamas. In the face of mounting challenges, the focus must remain on the humanitarian implications for civilians while striving for a resolution that prioritizes peace and security for the region.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Netanyahu say about the ceasefire?
Netanyahu stated that the chances for a partial ceasefire and hostage-release deal with Hamas are no longer possible.
What is Israel's military plan regarding Gaza?
Israel plans to extend its military operations beyond Gaza City to areas still outside its control.
What incident involved the World Central Kitchen?
The Israeli military reported killing militants disguised as aid workers near a vehicle associated with the World Central Kitchen during a drone strike.
How has the humanitarian situation in Gaza been affected?
The humanitarian conditions in Gaza have worsened, with shortages exacerbated by the ongoing Israeli blockade.
Has Hamas commented on the recent developments?
There has been no immediate response from Hamas regarding the current situation.
