Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hardened his refusal to give in to the demands of "Hamas" for ending the war in Gaza in exchange for the release of the hostages, saying today that such a thing would leave the Islamist group in power in the enclave, which would pose a threat to Israel, Reuters reported, quoted by BTA.
Netanyahu said Israel was willing to pause fighting in Gaza to secure the release of hostages still held by Hamas, which Israeli officials said numbered more than 130 people.
"While Israel demonstrates similar readiness, "Hamas" remains adamant in his final demands, the first of which is the withdrawal of all our troops from the Gaza Strip, an end to the war and leaving "Hamas" in power," the Israeli prime minister said, adding: "Israel cannot accept this."
"Otherwise "Hamas" will be able to fulfill his promise to carry out his mass murders, rapes and kidnappings again and again," argued Netanyahu.
In Cairo, the leaders of "Hamas" Ceasefire talks mediated by Egyptian and Qatari officials have been underway for a second day, but with no tangible progress, and the group continues to push for an end to the war in Gaza to reach an agreement, Palestinian officials said.