Sputnik
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejected on Wednesday Hamas' proposals for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip in exchange for the release of the hostages, saying only military actions could help bring the captives home.
"Giving in to Hamas' outrageous demands will not only fail to bring about the release of the hostages, but will lead to another massacre and a disaster for Israel," Netanyahu was quoted as saying by Israeli news portal Ynet.
The prime minister added that, during his meeting with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, he had announced Israel's intention to achieve the demilitarization of the Gaza Strip.
Netanyahu's remarks come amid continued negotiations on a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, mediated by Egypt and Qatar.
The release of hostages still held in Gaza has become one of the key issues in social and political debate in Israel in recent months. Mass demonstrations in support of the hostages' families have been held regularly across the country, with protesters demanding that the Israeli government find a way to release the captives at all costs.
In late January, the US, Israel, Egypt and Qatar representatives agreed in Paris on the basics of the new step-by-step deal to release hostages in Gaza. Final agreements have not yet been reached, since Israel considers Hamas' demand to stop the hostilities and withdraw troops from Gaza unacceptable.
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