09/10/2024

Israeli Official Says a Temporary Truce with Hamas is Possible

Ending the war is another story

Israel's defense minister says the window is closing on an opportunity to reach a temporary cease-fire deal with the Hamas militant group that he believes could also bring calm to the country's volatile northern border with Lebanon.

Speaking to reporters, Yoav Gallant said that conditions are ripe for at least a six-week pause in fighting that would include the release of many of the hostages held in Gaza. However, he would not commit to a permanent end to the fighting, as Hamas has demanded, raising questions about the feasibility of a deal.

"Israel should achieve an agreement that will bring about a pause for six weeks and bring back hostages," he said. After that period, he said, "we maintain the right to operate and achieve our goals — including the destruction of Hamas."

Please select this link to read the complete article from The Associated Press.