In a press conference, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made it clear that a ceasefire in the Gaza war “will not happen,” as he believes it would amount to “surrender” to Hamas. Netanyahu called on other nations to provide increased assistance in addressing the crisis involving over 230 hostages taken by Hamas on October 7.
He stressed that the international community must insist on the immediate and unconditional release of the captives. Drawing historical parallels, Netanyahu stated, “Calls for a ceasefire are calls for surrender to terrorism, surrender to barbarism—that will not happen.”
The Prime Minister pledged that Israel would persist in the fight until victory, highlighting the military’s efforts to minimize civilian casualties.
Netanyahu also emphasized that the army is taking extra measures to “prevent civilian casualties” in Gaza. Despite the ongoing conflict, he expressed determination, declaring, “Israel will not agree to the cessation of hostilities with Hamas after the horrific attack of October 7th.”
The health ministry in Gaza, under Hamas control, reported over 8,300 casualties, with a majority being civilians, since the conflict erupted on October 7.
The war began following Hamas’s deadly attack on southern Israel, resulting in the loss of 1,400 lives, predominantly civilians.
