Israel wants Hamas to abandon Gaza

(MENAFN) Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has stated that Israel is prepared to negotiate the end of the Gaza conflict, but only if Hamas lays down its arms and vacates the enclave. The conflict, which began over 15 months ago, saw a temporary three-stage ceasefire in January, but hostilities resumed in March after failed talks over hostages and the truce.

On Saturday, senior Hamas official Khalil al-Hayya announced that the group had accepted a new ceasefire proposal, mediated by Egypt and Qatar. Israel confirmed receiving the proposal and said it had made a counteroffer, but no further details were provided. Netanyahu, in a video statement on Sunday, reaffirmed Israel’s willingness to move to the final stage of the ceasefire, which would end the Gaza siege, as long as Hamas ceases its combat activities and vacates the region.

Netanyahu also emphasized that Israel would increase pressure on Hamas to release the remaining hostages, noting the success of previous efforts. If the ceasefire succeeds, Israel plans to take control of Gaza, ensuring security and implementing US President Donald Trump's controversial plan, which involves the relocation of Gaza's Palestinian population. Arab nations have rejected this proposal, offering their own reconstruction plan for Gaza, which both Israel and the US have dismissed.

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