Jerusalem: Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant said on Tuesday Israel was prepared to “deepen” its military operation in Gaza if truce talks fail to secure the release of hostages Hamas holds in the besieged Palestinian territory.
Israel is prepared to “make compromises” to get hostages out of the Gaza Strip, the Defence Minister said after touring the Rafah area following an Israeli incursion at the Rafah border crossing in southern Gaza.
Gallant’s statement came after Israeli negotiators arrived in Cairo for talks aimed at achieving a ceasefire and securing the freedom of hostages in the conflict-ridden region.
Israel’s Firm Stand on Hostage Release
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu affirmed Israel’s commitment to securing the release of hostages held in Gaza since October 7 attack. In a statement shared by his office, Netanyahu instructed the Israeli delegation in Cairo to stand firm on the conditions necessary for the hostages’ release and to prioritize Israel’s security requirements.
The renewed talks come in the wake of Hamas’s acceptance of a ceasefire plan proposed by Egyptian and Qatari mediators. Despite previous negotiation efforts, a lasting truce has remained elusive, with disagreements over ceasefire terms and Netanyahu’s determination to invade Rafah.
Israel Seizes Rafah Crossing, Vows Continued Operations
Netanyahu announced that Israeli forces had seized control of the Rafah crossing. He described the operation as a crucial step towards dismantling Hamas.
Gallant underscored the significance of the Rafah incursion, stating that it would continue until the hostages are safely returned. He warned of expanded Israeli operations across the Gaza Strip if the hostages are not released.
