Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has offered conditional acceptance of a 60-day ceasefire in Gaza as part of a broader hostage release and de-escalation framework, yet made it clear that should negotiations fail or Hamas violate these terms, Israel will resume its military campaign immediately.
Netanyahu made this comment during a private security briefing and later reiterated it in a television interview, showing the delicate balancing act he must strike between demonstrating an openness to negotiations while assuring right-wing allies and Israel’s public that military objectives will remain intact.
Israeli officials speaking on background have confirmed that Netanyahu has expressed support for a U.S.-sponsored phased truce plan which calls for an initial 60-day cessation of hostilities during which Hamas would release elderly, sick, and female hostages gradually; Israel would reduce military activity and allow increased humanitarian aid into Gaza in exchange.
“We’re not opposed to taking a pause,” Netanyahu declared, “but if Hamas thinks this means we are finished, they are mistaken – we will return and complete our task if necessary.” The Prime Minister has repeatedly highlighted Israel’s ultimate war goal as dismantling Hamas’ military and governing capabilities in Gaza.
U.S. and Qatari Mediation Efforts
A 60-day proposal reportedly formed part of an accord brokered between Israel, Hamas, Qatar and Egypt to set out a ceasefire outline during ongoing indirect talks between both parties. According to senior diplomats in Washington, Washington hopes this temporary pause can create the conditions necessary for permanent ceasefire agreements, along with long-term reconstruction plans for Gaza and restoring limited Palestinian Authority governance.
Vice-President Joe Biden has encouraged Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to support President Obama’s proposal of an extended truce, believing it will save lives, ensure hostage releases and open space for diplomacy.
Political Backlash and Coalition Tensions While international pressure grows on Netanyahu, his governing coalition members remain staunchly opposed. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir have warned that any agreement with Hamas is an “act of betrayal”, unless it includes complete victory and the removal of Hamas from Gaza.
Far-right ministers have threatened to leave the coalition if a ceasefire is seen as permanent or hostages are released in exchange for significant territorial or security concessions.
Hostage families and protest groups remain determined to secure an immediate resolution, fearing further delays will endanger Israeli captives’ lives. Protestors in Tel Aviv blocked highways demanding Netanyahu “bring them home now – at any cost!”
What Are My Next Steps
Talks will continue this week in Doha and Cairo, with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken likely meeting with regional mediators.
Israeli War Cabinet members have begun reviewing intelligence updates and truce guarantees, yet internal divisions persist.
Hamas has not responded officially to Israel’s 60-day offer but has signaled it may require wider concessions, including ceasing military operations and providing reconstruction aid.
As Netanyahu balances between diplomacy and deterrence, the next few days will be crucial in determining whether guns become silent–or resume firing again.