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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has accused Hamas of rejecting a ceasefire proposal brokered by U.S. and regional mediators, while reaffirming Israel’s commitment to security and denouncing what he called “Hamas propaganda.”
In a video message posted to his official X (formerly Twitter) account on Sunday, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel had agreed to a ceasefire framework presented by U.S. Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff and other international mediators. He claimed Hamas had refused the proposal.
“We accepted the proposal. Hamas rejected it,” Netanyahu said, adding that the terrorist group seeks to remain entrenched in Gaza, rearm itself, and prepare for future attacks something he said Israel “will never allow.”
Netanyahu criticized media reports suggesting Israel had rejected the truce, accusing international outlets of echoing “Hamas propaganda” and being “repeatedly wrong.”
The prime minister made the comments after what he described as a “very successful” diplomatic visit, which he claimed had led to a “major victory over Iran” though no specific details were provided in the statement.
The proposed truce would reportedly involve a phased ceasefire, hostage release, and gradual Israeli withdrawal from Gaza under international guarantees. However, talks have repeatedly stalled over Hamas’ insistence on a full Israeli withdrawal and Israel’s demand for security guarantees and the dismantling of Hamas’ military infrastructure.
The war in Gaza, now in its tenth month, has drawn international condemnation for its humanitarian toll. Multiple rounds of ceasefire talks mediated by the United States, Egypt, and Qatar have failed to produce a lasting solution.
WHAT’S NEXT:
U.S. officials are expected to hold renewed talks in Doha this week.
Netanyahu’s stance is likely to harden Israel’s negotiation position.
No immediate response from Hamas had been issued at the time of this report.
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