Netanyahu Offers Hamas Leaders Safe Exit If They Disarm
Jerusalem — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Sunday that Israel is prepared to negotiate an end to the ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip, but only if Hamas surrenders its weapons and relinquishes control of the region.
Speaking at the start of a weekly cabinet meeting, Netanyahu stated that under a final resolution, “Hamas leaders will be allowed to leave, we will ensure general security in the Gaza Strip, and we will enable the implementation of the plan for voluntary immigration.”
He emphasized that military pressure on Hamas is proving effective, weakening the group’s military capabilities and governance while creating conditions favorable for the release of Israeli hostages. “We are negotiating under fire, and therefore it is effective. We see that there are suddenly cracks,” Netanyahu said.
Addressing concerns that the government is not prioritizing the return of hostages, he insisted, “We are working and intend to bring them back. So far, the combination of military and political pressure has been the only factor securing the release of hostages.”
Netanyahu also touched upon the situation in Lebanon, asserting that the Israeli military is enforcing the ceasefire “firmly and optimally” and called on Beirut to prevent attacks from its territory.
Expressing support for U.S. military actions in the region, he noted, “We have an alliance with the greatest power in the world, and it stands behind us there and in other arenas without reservation.”
The recent escalation in military activities, including resumed strikes in Gaza and air strikes on neighboring regions, has raised international concerns about wider regional instability. The global community has been urging all parties to exercise restraint and seek peaceful resolutions.
