In response to Hamas accepting a ceasefire proposed by Egypt and Qatar earlier today, Israel rejected the deal, stating it was a softened proposal and not acceptable. Israeli Minister of National Security Itamar Ben-Gvir responded to the cease-fire proposal, stating on X:
Hamas’ exercises and games have only one answer: an immediate order to occupy Rafah! Increasing military pressure, and continuing the complete defeat of Hamas, until its complete defeat.
Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid expressed his disappointment on the deal failing, stating on X:
A government that wants to return the abductees is now convening an urgent discussion and sending the teams to Cairo, not hysterically issuing 3 different briefings from different parties and crushing the hearts of the families. A national disgrace. There is no limit.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan called on western countries to pressure Israel into accepting a ceasefire, stating on X:
Before our cabinet meeting, we had a phone conversation with Hamas Political Bureau Chairman Ismail Haniyeh. In our meeting with Mr. Haniyeh, we discussed the efforts made to end the conflicts and violence in Gaza. We evaluated Hamas’s approval of the ceasefire proposal it received from the mediators. During the meeting, in which I expressed that we found Hamas’s decision based on Turkey’s suggestions positive, we also emphasized that Israel should take steps for a permanent ceasefire. I call on all parties, especially Western countries, to put the necessary pressure on Israel for a ceasefire.
