Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that he is "committed to a proposed exchange deal, but Hamas is the one being obstinate," emphasizing that "any deal must allow Israel to return to fighting." Netanyahu pointed out that "Israel's control of the border area between Egypt and the Gaza Strip is a condition for a ceasefire with the movement."
He said, "The condition for the continued control of the Israeli army over the Philadelphia Corridor and the Rafah crossing is one of the four principles we have laid out in talks aimed at achieving a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages held in the sector," while Hamas, on its part, demands that the Israeli army withdraw from this area, according to "Agence France-Presse."
Netanyahu announced: "Those who attack us from the northern front will face death." He added: "We are achieving victories and are determined to complete the victory in Gaza," affirming that "we will continue the war until we achieve its goals, which are to eliminate Hamas and return the captives to their homes." He continued: "This war will continue until we achieve victory, even if it takes time."
Netanyahu thanked the families of the reserve forces for providing "support, solidarity, and backing to our soldiers." Earlier, Netanyahu's office announced that "the Israeli negotiating team will depart for Cairo later today, Thursday, for further discussions regarding a ceasefire in Gaza." Netanyahu's office indicated that "the Prime Minister met today with the negotiators returning from Doha."
