Israel has officially refused to engage in ceasefire talks with Hamas, declaring that it will not succumb to any conditions set by the militant group. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized that Israel could not accept a scenario where Hamas would reassert control over Gaza and potentially use it as a base for future aggression. Netanyahu stated, "We cannot allow our civilians to be put at risk by the construction of more bunkers and arsenals."
Despite international criticism, Netanyahu affirmed Israel's readiness to defend itself independently if necessary. "We are fighting an enemy that seeks to annihilate us. No international pressure or resolution can prevent us from defending our citizens," he declared.
The confrontation escalated following a surprise attack by Hamas, which resulted in the deaths of 1,170 people, mostly civilians. In response, Israel's retaliatory strikes have reportedly killed 34,683 in Gaza, including women and children, according to the health ministry under Hamas' control.
In the midst of these developments, CIA Director Bill Burns has traveled to Doha for emergency discussions with Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani about the ongoing war.
Additionally, Israel announced a ban on Al Jazeera's activities within the country, labeling their coverage as criminal actions. Shortly thereafter, Al Jazeera ceased its broadcasts. The network has vowed to fight for justice through legal channels, asserting that their reporting on the conflict will continue unabated.
