Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu says no ceasefire until hostage names provided
- “We will not move forward with the outline until we receive a list of the hostages to be freed, as agreed,” Netanyahu said in a statement released by his office, as reported by The Times of Israel. “Israel will not tolerate violations of the agreement. The sole responsibility lies with Hamas.”
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, hours before a ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas is scheduled to take effect, stated that the agreement might face delays due to Hamas failing to provide a list of hostages slated for release.
“We will not move forward with the outline until we receive a list of the hostages to be freed, as agreed,” Netanyahu said in a statement released by his office, as reported by The Times of Israel. “Israel will not tolerate violations of the agreement. The sole responsibility lies with Hamas.”
According to the agreement, Hamas is required to provide the names of hostages at least 24 hours before their release, initially scheduled for 4 p.m. local time. However, Netanyahu indicated that this crucial step had yet to occur, potentially stalling the ceasefire.
Netanyahu: Israel reserves right to resume Gaza conflict, with US support
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated on Saturday that Israel retains the right to resume military action in Gaza with the support of the United States, while vowing to bring all hostages held in the Palestinian territory back home.
Netanyahu stated that Israel retains the right to resume military operations in Gaza, should the need arise, with the backing of the United States. His remarks came just a day before a ceasefire is set to take effect between Israel and Hamas.
In a televised address, Netanyahu reaffirmed Israel's commitment to bringing home all hostages held by Hamas.
"We reserve the right to resume the war if necessary, with American support," Netanyahu said in a televised statement, a day before a ceasefire is set to take effect.
"We are thinking of all our hostages ... I promise you that we will achieve all our objectives and bring back all the hostages.
"With this agreement, we will bring back 33 of our brothers and sisters, the majority (of them) alive," he said.
Also Read | The Israel-Hamas ceasefire may not end the war
He said the 42-day first phase, which starts on Sunday, was a "temporary ceasefire."
"If we are forced to resume the war, we will do so with force," Netanyahu said, adding that Israel had "changed the face of the Middle East" since the war began.
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First Published:18 Jan 2025, 11:10 PM IST
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