Israel vows to continue war on Hamas despite possible cease-fire

Israel will continue its war against Hamas, even if a temporary cease-fire is reached with the Islamic militant group to release hostages.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has declared that Israel will continue its military operations against Hamas, even if a temporary ceasefire is reached to secure the release of hostages held by the Islamic militant group. In his comments made on Tuesday, ahead of a scheduled Cabinet vote on a ceasefire proposal, Netanyahu vowed to press ahead with the war until all goals are achieved.

Vow to Continue the War

Netanyahu stated, "We are at war, and we will continue the war... We will continue until we achieve all our goals." The Israeli Cabinet is expected to vote on a plan that would temporarily halt Israel's offensive in Gaza in exchange for the release of approximately 50 out of the 240 hostages held by Hamas. However, Israel has made it clear that the war will continue until Hamas' military capabilities are dismantled and all hostages are returned.

Progress Towards a Deal

These comments come as Israel and Hamas seem to be approaching a potential agreement to temporarily cease their devastating six-week war. The aim is to secure the release of dozens of hostages held in the Gaza Strip in exchange for Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli jails. Hamas has expressed optimism that a deal brokered by Qatar could be reached within the coming hours, while Netanyahu has convened top decision-makers to discuss the matter.

Ongoing Military Operations

While diplomatic efforts are underway, Israeli troops continue to engage in battles with Palestinian militants in an urban refugee camp in northern Gaza and around hospitals that are overcrowded with patients and families seeking shelter. Although there is no official confirmation on whether a vote will take place or details of a potential deal, Israeli media outlets have reported that an agreement could involve a five-day halt in Israel's offensive in Gaza and the release of 50 hostages held by Hamas in exchange for approximately 150 Palestinian prisoners held by Israel.

Complex Negotiations

Talks between the two parties have repeatedly reached impasses. Even if a deal is reached, it would not signify an end to the war. The conflict erupted on October 7 when Hamas militants crossed the border into southern Israel, resulting in the deaths of over 1,200 people, predominantly civilians, and the capture of around 240 hostages. In response, Israel launched airstrikes and a ground invasion, leading to the deaths of more than 11,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza's Health Ministry. Tragically, two-thirds of the Palestinian casualties have been women and minors, with over 2,700 individuals still missing and believed to be buried under rubble. The Health Ministry has been unable to update its count since November 11 due to the collapse of the health sector.

The situation remains tense and fluid, with the ongoing war in Gaza causing immense suffering and loss of life. As diplomatic efforts continue, the international community is urging both sides to find a peaceful resolution that addresses the underlying issues and brings an end to the violence.