Gaza Ceasefire: Israel Pressures Hamas as Netanyahu Threatens to Eliminate It

The Israeli Foreign Minister, Gabi Ashkenazi, said yesterday, Wednesday, that Israel is serious in its efforts to reach an agreement with the Hamas movement to end the war in Gaza and release the hostages held there.

Ashkenazi explained that his country has agreed to the proposals presented by the US Special Envoy, Steve Whitecuff, adding that there are some positive indicators but he preferred not to delve into further details.

He emphasized that the goal at this stage is to start indirect talks as soon as possible.

Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made decisive statements, saying, "Hamas will not exist anymore," emphasizing his firm rejection of any return of the movement to rule Gaza, adding: "There will be no Hamas. There will be no Hamastan. We will not go back to that. It's over."

On the other hand, US President Donald Trump called on Hamas to accept what he described as the "final proposal" for a 60-day ceasefire, a proposal put forward by the United States in cooperation with Qatar and Egypt.

In a post on the "Truth Social" platform, Trump said that his representatives had a lengthy and productive meeting with Israeli officials, and that Israel agreed to the terms of the ceasefire, explaining that the truce will pave the way to work with all parties to end the war.

Trump urged Hamas to accept the offer, warning that the situation will not improve if rejected, but rather "will worsen." He also indicated that representatives from Qatar and Egypt will formally deliver the proposal to Hamas leadership in Gaza.

Trump is scheduled to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House next Monday, as part of intensive US diplomatic efforts to end the conflict, now in its ninth month, amid increasing international pressure to reach a comprehensive agreement that restores stability to the sector, ensures the release of hostages, and stops the fighting.