Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has outlined his conditions for ending the war in Gaza, amid international pressure and strained ties with the US. In his first press conference since December, Netanyahu stated that he will end the war if Hamas lays down its arms, steps down from power, returns all hostages, and allows for demilitarization of Gaza.
Netanyahu emphasized that Israel would accept a temporary ceasefire in exchange for hostage releases. He confirmed 20 living hostages and up to 38 deceased individuals in Gaza. The prime minister reiterated his stance that US allies support Israel but cannot accept a humanitarian crisis in Gaza, worsened by an 11-week blockade of aid.
Netanyahu also discussed Iran, stating that the country remains a serious threat to Israel. He expressed hope for an agreement with the US to prevent nuclear weapons and enriching uranium, while reserving the right to defend himself against Iranian threats.
The Israeli government has proposed three phases of “Operation Gideon’s Chariots” in Gaza: facilitating aid entry, opening distribution points managed by American companies, and creating a humanitarian zone. Netanyahu aims for all Gaza territories to be under Israeli security control at war’s end and Hamas to be defeated.
The prime minister criticized Britain’s decision to sanction Daniella Weiss, calling it “shameful.”
Source: https://jewishinsider.com/2025/05/benamin-netanyahu-israel-gaza-war-october-7-hostages-press-conference-iran-trump