Netanyahu Rejects Hamas’ ‘Delusional’ Demands

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared on Tuesday that Israel would not concede to Hamas’ terms for a cease-fire following the group’s refusal of the latest truce proposal.

Netanyahu’s office released a statement on Tuesday criticizing Hamas for showing no interest in advancing towards an agreement. He pointed out that Hamas’ rejection underscored the negative impact of the Security Council’s recent decision, which on Monday passed a resolution demanding an immediate halt to hostilities and the release of all hostages taken by Hamas, without making these two conditions interdependent.

Hamas, in a statement issued late Monday, communicated through mediators its insistence on its initial demands, which call for an end to the conflict and a complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.

Netanyahu emphasized that Israel would stand firm against what he described as Hamas’ “unrealistic” demands. He affirmed Israel’s commitment to dismantling the militant organization’s military and administrative capabilities and to securing the freedom of all hostages held by Hamas.