(MENAFN) Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized on Sunday that any potential ceasefire agreement in Gaza must allow Israel to resume military operations until all its objectives are achieved. Netanyahu reiterated Israel's primary goal of completely eliminating the Hamas militant group.

Netanyahu's stance follows reports that Hamas has approved a phased ceasefire proposal put forward by the United States, marking a significant shift by dropping its demand for Israel to commit to a permanent ceasefire prior to signing the agreement, according to a Reuters source.

Under the proposed deal, Hamas aims to halt hostilities through negotiations during the initial six-week phase, aimed at resolving the longstanding conflict in Gaza. However, the Palestinian group seeks assurances from international mediators guaranteeing Israel's commitment to continue negotiations for a permanent ceasefire once the initial phase commences. Issues related to hostages are expected to be addressed following the implementation of the first phase.

Hamas officials are awaiting Israel's response to the latest proposal. Despite this, Netanyahu insisted that any agreement must allow Israel the flexibility to resume military operations until all wartime objectives are met.

Netanyahu was reportedly scheduled to consult on subsequent steps following his statement, which has potentially stalled momentum towards a deal. He emphasized that the agreed plan, supported by Israel and welcomed by President Biden, enables Israel to secure the release of hostages without compromising on its broader war objectives.

This paraphrased version expands on Netanyahu's conditions for a Gaza ceasefire deal and includes the latest developments in the negotiations.

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