Ceasefire and Hostage Negotiations Stalled, Says Netanyahu

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the ongoing talks surrounding a ceasefire and hostage deal during a weekly government meeting on Sunday, revealing that a deal had not yet been reached due to Hamas’ refusal to negotiate. According to Netanyahu, Hamas “does not want there to be a deal,” which has caused the negotiations to stall.

Ministers attending the meeting were briefed on the challenges in the talks, with one source telling The Jerusalem Post that the situation was “less optimistic.” The Israeli government conveyed that the negotiations for the hostage deal were stuck, with Hamas continuously shifting its demands, complicating the process.

In the same meeting, ministers were informed that Hamas had returned to its previous stance, demanding an end to the ongoing war as a condition for any deal. This development occurred ahead of Netanyahu’s prostate surgery, which he confirmed in a video statement shared after the meeting. In the video, Netanyahu expressed gratitude for the well-wishes and briefly discussed his upcoming procedure, also wishing viewers a Happy Hanukkah.

Meanwhile, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) continue their military operations in northern Gaza. On Sunday, the IDF signaled that it would extend its blockade of Jabalya if necessary, as part of ongoing efforts to clear northern Gaza of Hamas militants. This comes amid speculation regarding the so-called "General's Plan," which proposes the evacuation of northern Gaza, though the Israeli government has denied fully implementing this plan.

In a targeted operation on Friday, the IDF eliminated a significant Hamas cell in Jabalya, seizing weapons and capturing over 240 individuals suspected of being involved in terrorism. Despite global criticism, Israel continues to emphasize its adherence to international law, even as Hamas utilizes hospitals and civilian areas as cover for military operations.