Netanyahu to Hamas: Free All Hostages and Lay Down Arms or the War Will Continue

Gaza-Israel Conflict: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has set strict conditions for a ceasefire in Gaza. He demanded the release of all hostages within 72 hours, the disarming of Hamas, and the Gaza should be fully demilitarized. Netanyahu said these things after meeting US President Donald Trump at the White House on Monday.

Trump presented a 20-point peace proposal

Netanyahu called Trump Israel's great supporter, while Trump assured Israel of continued US support. During the talks, Netanyahu, at Trump's behest, also expressed regret to the Qatari Prime Minister over the airstrike in Doha, which killed six people.

During the talks, Trump presented a 20-point peace proposal to end the Israel-Hamas conflict. This includes a ceasefire in Gaza, the withdrawal of Israeli troops, and no further expansion of the West Bank. This proposal will be conveyed to Hamas through Egypt.

US stands with Israel

At the joint press conference, Trump clearly stated that the US stands with Israel in its fight against Hamas. He also clarified that Hamas would be kept away from Gaza's power after the war. Netanyahu, on this occasion, while referring to the joint Israeli-US attack on Iran's nuclear program, said that it has strengthened global security.

On the other hand, Hamas has issued a statement saying that they will only release the hostages in the event of a permanent ceasefire but will not put down weapons. The organization reiterated that their struggle would continue till the establishment of an independent Palestine nation. Hamas also says that they have not yet received the peace proposal of America.