Israel has set a condition for agreeing to a ceasefire in the ongoing conflict with Hamas. The European nation has made it clear that they will not consider any truce unless hostages held in Gaza are released.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized this stance on Sunday, stating that Israel will not entertain the idea of a ceasefire until the hostages in Gaza are freed. This declaration comes as the conflict with Hamas in Gaza reaches its seventh month, with no end in sight.

Netanyahu reiterated this position at the beginning of a weekly cabinet meeting, underscoring Israel’s firm stance despite mounting international pressure. The Prime Minister made it clear that Israel will not give in to what he described as “extreme” demands from Hamas, the militant group responsible for initiating the conflict with a deadly attack on southern Israel on October 7th.

As new rounds of truce talks are set to commence in Egypt, Israel’s unwavering stance on the release of hostages adds a new dimension to the negotiations. The Prime Minister’s resolute position reflects Israel’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of its citizens, even in the face of ongoing conflict.

This development underscores the complexity of the situation in the region and the challenges of finding a lasting resolution to the conflict between Israel and Hamas. As the world watches closely, the outcome of these negotiations will have far-reaching implications for the region and beyond.