Israel denies ceasefire while negotiating hostage release with US mediation

Amid growing diplomatic pressure and rumors of a possible ceasefire, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu categorically denied that a suspension of hostilities in Gaza had been agreed upon.

In an official statement, Netanyahu explained that the only thing authorized by his government was the creation of a temporary humanitarian corridor to facilitate the release of hostage Edan Alexander, a dual US-Israeli citizen, who has been held by Hamas for more than six months.

“There is no ceasefire agreement. This is merely a one-off operation with a humanitarian objective,” the prime minister stated in Jerusalem.

The talks, mediated in part by US and Qatari officials, are continuing actively, although the atmosphere is tense. Israel has reiterated its willingness to increase military pressure on Gaza, especially in the south of the enclave, where 59 Israeli and foreign hostages are believed to remain.

Despite diplomatic efforts led by Washington, Israeli military sources confirmed that plans to intensify operations in Rafah are ongoing, fueling fears of a new wave of large-scale clashes.

Humanitarian organizations have warned of the risk of escalation while civilians are still trapped and areas without guaranteed access to medicine and food.