On Wednesday morning, the office of Israeli Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu addressed reports regarding a potential ceasefire deal. According to these reports, there were discussions about halting the conflict for a period of six to eight weeks in exchange for a list of hostages held in Gaza.
A statement issued by Netanyahu’s office firmly rejected these claims, calling them “absolutely false.” It emphasized that the reports in Arab media about such a ceasefire deal were part of a psychological operation orchestrated by Hamas aimed at manipulating both the families of the hostages and the broader Israeli population. The statement concluded with a firm declaration: “The State of Israel will continue to work relentlessly, around the clock, to bring all of our hostages back home.”
This comes after reports last week by Ynet, which stated that Israel was contemplating a response to an offer made by Hamas. The offer involved a week-long ceasefire in exchange for a list of hostages. This was reportedly in the wake of Mossad Chief David Barnea’s visit to Qatar.
As per Ynet, Israel was considering countering Hamas’ proposal by accepting it on the condition that several hostages would be released first. This step would be taken as an indication of Hamas’ sincerity in their offer.
A Wednesday report expanded on the topic, suggesting that the potential ceasefire could extend for a period of six to eight weeks. During this time, there would be a significant increase in the flow of humanitarian aid to Gaza, alongside efforts to regulate and ensure its distribution.
Moreover, the aid would include extensive efforts to rebuild Gaza’s healthcare system. In return, Israel would receive a detailed list of hostages who are still alive, along with precise information about the locations of those who have died, held by terrorist groups.
{Matzav.com}