Photo: Tsakhal
The United States has called on Israel to postpone a full-scale ground operation in the Gaza Strip to give negotiations on the release of hostages a chance. This was reported by The Jerusalem Post, citing sources familiar with the situation.
According to reports, Washington insists on the parallel continuation of negotiations and limited hostilities in order not to complicate a potential agreement.
“If there is a chance for a temporary ceasefire to return the hostages, we are ready for it,” Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said last Wednesday.
At the same time, Israel says that after the start of the manoeuvre phase of the offensive, the troops will not leave the occupied territories, even if an agreement is reached. Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz emphasised:
“Once the manoeuvre starts, we will act with full force and will not stop until all goals are achieved.”
Last Thursday, Israel withdrew its delegation from Qatar when Hamas demanded that the United States provide guarantees of an end to the war as part of the deal. Negotiations have been stalled.
The so-called “Witkoff plan” is currently being discussed, which includes the release of 10 hostages and a 60-day ceasefire. Despite the pause, the United States continues indirect talks with Hamas through Arab-American mediator Bashar Babah, who previously headed the Arab Americans for Trump campaign.
