Netanyahu firm on Gaza offensive, rejects ceasefire amid military success

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in an interview with Fox News on Thursday, categorically ruled out a ceasefire in Gaza, asserting that the military’s performance was “exceptionally well.” Despite the ongoing offensive, he emphasized that Israel had no intentions of reoccupying the Palestinian territory.

“A ceasefire with Hamas means surrender,” Netanyahu declared, underscoring that there was no set timetable for concluding the military operation. Expressing confidence in the Israeli army’s capabilities, he stated, “However long it takes, we’ll do it.”

Addressing the casualties and hostilities, Netanyahu stated that Israel’s objective was to destroy Hamas, attributing 1,400 deaths and 240 hostages to the militant group’s actions on October 7. The offensive’s toll on Gaza, reported by the Hamas-run health ministry, indicated over 10,800 deaths, predominantly civilians and numerous children.

Netanyahu clarified Israel’s stance on Gaza’s future, asserting, “We don’t seek to govern Gaza. We don’t seek to occupy it, but we seek to give it and us a better future.” He outlined the vision of a demilitarized, deradicalized, and rebuilt territory, emphasizing the need for a civilian government without specifying potential leaders.

Despite the conflict, Netanyahu maintained that Israel’s pursuit of a peace deal with Saudi Arabia remained on course, building on the Abraham Accords that normalized ties with several Arab countries. He expressed confidence that diplomatic momentum would persist after dealing with Hamas, stating, “Conditions will be ripe. In fact, after a victory, I think they’ll be even riper.”