Netanyahu Shuts Down Ceasefire, Hostage Deal with Hamas: ‘No Deal in Progress’

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated firmly on Thursday that he does not believe a ceasefire or hostage deal in Gaza is imminent, sharply opposing the Biden administration’s recent claims that a breakthrough is close.

“There’s not a deal in the making,” Netanyahu told Fox News, adding, “Unfortunately, it’s not close.” His comments sharply contrast with the optimistic messaging from the Biden administration. On Sunday, President Joe Biden suggested that an agreement was near, and a senior U.S. official claimed 90% of the deal had been completed. Netanyahu dismissed this, calling it “exactly inaccurate.”

Netanyahu’s remarks reflect ongoing tensions between Israel and the U.S. over the potential deal. While U.S. officials have avoided directly criticizing Netanyahu, a National Security Council official acknowledged frustrations with the negotiation process, though they maintain optimism about a deal.

John Kirby, a spokesperson for the National Security Council, confirmed that while the process has been challenging, the U.S. remains committed to reaching a deal. Kirby reiterated that much progress has been made but also emphasized that nothing is finalized until all details are agreed upon.

A sticking point in negotiations is the exchange of hostages for Palestinian prisoners, with Hamas reportedly adding new demands. Hamas’s recent killing of six hostages has further complicated the talks, casting doubt on its willingness to finalize a deal.

Netanyahu has consistently emphasized the importance of Israeli control over the Philadelphi Corridor, a key border area between Gaza and Egypt, as vital for national security. He argued that maintaining this control is necessary to prevent Hamas from smuggling weapons into Gaza. Netanyahu’s public statements on this issue have not been well received by U.S. officials, who view it as a hindrance to the negotiations.

Hamas has accused Netanyahu of using deceptive tactics to evade reaching a ceasefire agreement. Khalil Al-Hayya, head of Hamas’s negotiating team, claimed that Netanyahu’s maneuvers have been exposed to the international community.

Despite mounting accusations that Netanyahu has blocked a deal, he insists that Hamas is the main obstacle to peace and the release of hostages. He rejected claims that his government has obstructed the negotiations, instead blaming Hamas for the ongoing conflict and violence.

As talks continue, U.S. officials have denied making any offers to Hamas in a bid to secure the release of American hostages, stating that no such deal is currently possible.