Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reaffirmed his commitment to eradicating Hamas on Wednesday, despite ongoing ceasefire negotiations mediated by Qatar and Egypt. Speaking in Ashkelon, Netanyahu declared his goal to “destroy Hamas down to their very foundation,” without commenting on U.S. President Donald Trump’s claim that Israel agreed to a 60-day truce.
Hamas confirmed it is holding national consultations to review the latest proposals, which include a temporary ceasefire, Israeli withdrawal, and urgent humanitarian aid to Gaza. Over two million Gaza residents remain in worsening conditions as Israeli forces continue operations.
Wednesday’s violence killed at least 47 Palestinians, including the director of the Indonesian Hospital. Israeli airstrikes hit southern Gaza’s Al-Mawasi area, a designated safe zone, killing five family members, while several others died near aid distribution sites.
Foreign Minister Gideon Saar noted “positive signs” toward a hostage and ceasefire deal. Of the 251 hostages taken during Hamas’s October 2023 attack, 49 remain in Gaza, including 27 confirmed dead.
The conflict, which began with Hamas’s assault killing 1,219 people in Israel, has since claimed over 57,012 lives in Gaza, mostly civilians, according to local health authorities and UN-verified data. Israeli forces continue expanding operations and issued fresh evacuation orders for parts of Gaza City late Wednesday.
