Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced this morning, Monday, that "if Hamas surrenders, lays down its arms, and returns the captives, the war could end tomorrow." He emphasized that "we will defend ourselves on our own and do not ask that from American soldiers or others."
Netanyahu indicated that "we are discussing the exile of Hamas leaders, but it primarily depends on the surrender of the movement," adding: "The idea of exiling Hamas leaders from Gaza is on the table in discussions." He stressed that "local residents of Gaza cannot be allowed to govern the area while Hamas is still present."
He stated: "We will reconstruct the current Gaza border settlements and build additional ones, and we will not allow a repeat of what happened on October 7."
Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Galant affirmed this morning that "the war in Gaza will continue until we return all the captives and dismantle Hamas and its military capabilities."
Israeli public broadcasting reported that the government may convene on Wednesday to decide on resuming negotiations. U.S. President Joe Biden announced on Saturday that a ceasefire could be possible "tomorrow" if the movement releases the hostages it is holding in Gaza.
