Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Thursday that Israel is ready to negotiate a lasting ceasefire with Hamas once a temporary truce begins — but only if the militant group agrees to disarm and give up control of Gaza.
“If this can be achieved through negotiations, great,” Netanyahu said. “If not, we’ll achieve it through force.”
His remarks came as Israeli airstrikes killed at least 66 people across Gaza, including eight children waiting outside a health clinic. The UN said one of the victims was a one-year-old boy who had spoken his first words hours earlier.
Talks for a 60-day truce have continued in Qatar, with Hamas reportedly agreeing to release 10 of the remaining 20 hostages captured during the October 2023 attack that sparked the war.
Key sticking points include Hamas's demand for full aid access, an Israeli military withdrawal, and guarantees for a long-term peace. Israel is also considering allowing Hamas leaders to go into exile.
Foreign Minister Gideon Saar confirmed progress but warned that major issues remain, particularly over who will control Gaza post-war.
The death toll in Gaza has surpassed 57,700, mostly civilians, according to health authorities. Israel says 1,219 people were killed in Hamas's initial attack, and 49 hostages remain in Gaza, including 27 believed to be dead.
“If this can be achieved through negotiations, great,” Netanyahu said. “If not, we’ll achieve it through force.”
His remarks came as Israeli airstrikes killed at least 66 people across Gaza, including eight children waiting outside a health clinic. The UN said one of the victims was a one-year-old boy who had spoken his first words hours earlier.
Talks for a 60-day truce have continued in Qatar, with Hamas reportedly agreeing to release 10 of the remaining 20 hostages captured during the October 2023 attack that sparked the war.
Key sticking points include Hamas's demand for full aid access, an Israeli military withdrawal, and guarantees for a long-term peace. Israel is also considering allowing Hamas leaders to go into exile.
Foreign Minister Gideon Saar confirmed progress but warned that major issues remain, particularly over who will control Gaza post-war.
The death toll in Gaza has surpassed 57,700, mostly civilians, according to health authorities. Israel says 1,219 people were killed in Hamas's initial attack, and 49 hostages remain in Gaza, including 27 believed to be dead.
