Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated in an interview with Israeli Channel 14 that he is open to accepting a partial deal with Hamas, which would involve the release of some hostages held in Gaza. However, he emphasized that the war would not end until Hamas is destroyed.
Netanyahu's remarks have been criticized for contradicting the terms of Israel's latest ceasefire and hostage deal proposal, as well as decisions made by the war cabinet. Critics argue that Netanyahu's statements have damaged the chances of reaching a deal with Hamas and caused emotional turmoil for the families of hostages.
Despite the backlash regarding said 'partial deal', Netanyahu later clarified his full commitment to the three-phase hostage agreement plan proposed by US President Joe Biden. He maintained that the goal of defeating Hamas in Gaza would not be compromised, and the war would continue until that objective is achieved.
Netanyahu's office attributed the lack of progress in negotiations to Hamas' rejection of the proposed terms and emphasized the importance of bringing back all hostages, living and deceased, before considering an end to the conflict.