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Netanyahu stated that Hamas is an obstacle to a hostage release deal. “Together with our US allies, we are now considering alternative options to bring our hostages home, end Hamas’s terror rule, and secure lasting peace for Israel and our region,” he said without providing further details. The U.S. special envoy, Steve Witkoff, had previously mentioned looking at “alternative options” due to Hamas’ lack of desire for a truce.
Hamas has stated that negotiations are expected to resume the following week and that the recall of the Israeli and American delegations was a pressure tactic. A Hamas official, Bassem Naim, noted that gaps in previous talks had nearly been resolved regarding the ceasefire agenda, guarantees for continued negotiations, and aid delivery methods.
The deal under discussion involves an initial 60-day ceasefire during which Hamas would release 10 living hostages and the remains of 18 others. Aid supplies would be increased, and both sides would hold negotiations on a lasting ceasefire. However, talks have been stalled over differing demands for ending the war: Hamas insists on full Israeli withdrawal and end to the conflict in exchange for releasing all hostages, while Israel requires that Hamas give up power and disarm before agreeing to an end to the conflict.
Some 50 hostages remain in Gaza but fewer than half are believed to be alive. Families of the hostages express frustration with the ongoing negotiations. “I thought maybe something would come from the time the negotiation team was in Doha,” said Yehuda Cohen, whose son Nimrod is being held hostage.
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In recent days, French President Emmanuel Macron announced that France will recognize Palestine as a state and called for an end to the war in Gaza. Israeli strikes continued across Gaza, resulting in at least 22 deaths since Thursday night, according to hospital records at Nasser Hospital.
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What is Netanyahu's stance on Hamas according to his statement?
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