Time for a Gaza truce deal, says U.S. after Netanyahu rejects ‘concessions’ in indirect negotiations with Hamas
Despite increasing grief and fury among Israelis, who have taken to the streets to pressure the government and express concern for the fate of the hostages, Mr. Netanyahu said he would "not give in to pressure"
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The United States has urged for a resolution to the ongoing Gaza conflict, emphasizing the need to "finalise" a deal between Israel and Hamas. This call comes in the wake of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's firm refusal to make concessions, despite mounting pressure from both domestic protests and international mediators. U.S. State Department spokesman Matthew Miller stated that Washington would collaborate with Egypt and Qatar to push for a final agreement in the coming days.
Netanyahu's recent statements reflect his steadfast stance against yielding to pressure, asserting that Israel must maintain military control over the Philadelphi Corridor along the Gaza-Egypt border. He argues that this control is crucial to preventing Hamas from rearming, despite widespread protests in Israel fueled by the deaths of six hostages recently recovered from Gaza. These protests, described as some of the largest since the war began, have intensified calls for a hostage release deal.
Critics, including political opponents and analysts, have accused Netanyahu of prioritizing his political survival over the lives of hostages, suggesting that his refusal to compromise is prolonging the conflict. Analysts argue that he is masking his motivations under the guise of security concerns, while his coalition relies heavily on far-right ministers who oppose any truce.
U.S. President Joe Biden has expressed frustration with Netanyahu's approach, indicating that he is not doing enough to secure a hostage deal. Biden's comments highlight the growing international concern regarding the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where ongoing military actions have resulted in significant civilian casualties, further complicating the path to peace.
As the situation remains dire, with fighting continuing in Gaza and humanitarian efforts hampered, the urgency for a ceasefire and a resolution to the hostage crisis has never been more critical. The international community watches closely as negotiations unfold, hoping for a breakthrough that could lead to an end to the violence and a sustainable peace agreement.
