Netanyahu Eyes Hostage Release Agreement and Long Ceasefire, Outlines Conditions for Peace

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is hopeful a deal to release hostages held by Hamas can be finalized in the coming days, potentially leading to a 60-day ceasefire. He said, “We think we can bring it to completion.” This could also lead to negotiations to end the conflict. Netanyahu told Newsmax’s Greta Van Susteren that he expected a deal within a few days. Negotiations are ongoing in Qatar. Netanyahu also addressed reports that the Trump administration does not want Israel to resume fighting after the ceasefire. Netanyahu outlined Israel’s conditions for ending the war: Hamas must lay down arms, Gaza must be demilitarized, and Hamas must lose its governmental and military capabilities. Netanyahu has made these demands throughout the war, which Hamas has repeatedly rejected. He has stated that Israel would use military force if necessary to achieve its goals. Trump stated that a deal on Gaza is ‘very close.’