Netanyah: Israel opened “for short tactical causes” in Gaza

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Monday that Israel would consider the possibility for <x0 malpractice short-term” fighting in Gaza, facilitating the entry of humanitarian aid, or allowing the release of hostages held by Hamas militants.

But the Israeli leader reiterated his country's refusal to a full ceasefire unless all persons held hostage by Hamas are freed.

Mr. Netanyahu made comments in an interview for American television ABC, asking who should rule Gaza after the fighting ended.

“I think that Israel will have indefinitely responsibility for general security, because we have seen what happens when we don't have that responsibility,” said Mr. Netanyah.

Following Hamas' attack on 7 October, which killed 1,400 people, Israel launched an air and land offensive against Hamas, whom the United States considers a terrorist organisation. Hamas took about 240 people hostage.

Israeli bombings have killed at least 10,000 in Gaza, according to the enclave's health authorities.

Both Israel and Hamas have rejected increasing international pressure for a ceasefire.

Asked whether he was open to a humanitarian pause in Gaza, Netanyah said: “There will be no ceasefire, there will be no general ceasefire in Gaza without the release of our hostages”. He added: “For short tactical pauses an hour here, an hour there we've had them before. I believe we will act in accordance with the circumstances, so that we can access humanitarian goods, or the exit of hostages”.

Meanwhile, during his call Monday with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyah, President Joe Biden failed to reach an agreement on the need for a humanitarian pause of the Israeli-Hamas war.

Washington has been trying to try for the sake of conflict to allow aid entry. But like Israel, the United States has said that only Hamas would benefit a full truce.

President Joe Biden discussed such causes and the possibility of freeing hostages in a call with Mr. Netanyah on Monday, repeating his support for Israel, but stressing that it should protect civilians, the White House said. /dw