The Israeli government has rejected Hamas’s statement that it is ready for a “comprehensive deal” on Gaza. Prime Minister Netanyahu’s office said there was nothing new in these words and that the war would only end once the hostages were released, Hamas was disarmed, and Israel retained control.
Hamas, for its part, proposed exchanging hostages for Palestinian prisoners, withdrawing Israeli forces from the area, and beginning the reconstruction of Gaza. It also said that post-war governance could be handed over to independent experts.
Israeli Defence Minister Itan Katz announced that the army was preparing for a large-scale offensive on Gaza City. However, the families of hostages are calling on the government to halt the offensive and reach a deal.
Recent strikes in Gaza killed more than 20 people, including a pregnant woman. The UN has warned that the situation could lead to even more serious consequences for civilians.
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