On Friday, in response to US President Joe Biden’s call for an end to the almost eight-month war, Hamas said it considers positively an Israeli roadmap towards a complete Gaza ceasefire.
In a statement, Hamas stated, “Considers positively Biden’s speech regarding a permanent ceasefire, the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, reconstruction and the exchange of prisoners”.
However, swiftly afterward, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu poured cold water on Biden’s peace talks, stating that the army would not stop fighting until it had eliminated Hamas’s capacity to rule Gaza and pose a military threat.
In a statement, Netanyahu’s office noted, “The Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu authorized the negotiating team to present an outline for achieving (the return of hostages) while insisting that the war will not end until all of its goals are achieved, including the return of all our hostages and the elimination of Hamas’ military and governmental capabilities”.
Also read: Following Gaza Peace Proposal, Israeli PM Insists On Hamas’ Capacities Destruction
Biden’s remarks came as Israeli forces advanced into central Rafah, intensifying their war with Hamas despite international objections to any attack on the southern Gaza city.
The American president urged Hamas to embrace the Israeli offer.
“It’s time for this war to end, for the day after to begin”, Biden remarked, echoing British Foreign Secretary David Cameron.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres strongly hopes the recent steps
would lead to an agreement by the parties for lasting peace.
German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock stated that the Israeli offer provides a glimpse of hope and a possible path out of the war’s deadlock, while EU Commissioner Ursula von der Leyen welcomed a balanced and realistic approach to stop the bloodshed.
Also read: Israeli Forces Invade Rafah Intensifies, Killing Civilians In Deadly Assaults
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