Foreign Minister Sa'ar Expressed Israel's Terms To Negotiate The Permanent Armistice In Gaza

JAKARTA - Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar said Israel was willing to negotiate a permanent ceasefire with the Palestinian militant group Hamas in the Gaza Strip, if a temporary ceasefire agreement was reached.

"If a temporary ceasefire is reached, we are willing to negotiate a permanent ceasefire," Foreign Minister Sa'ar said at a joint press conference with his Slovak counterpart Juraj BLAn border in Bratislava, reported The Times of Israel July 9.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu himself has so far refused to enter negotiations regarding the end of Gaza's war until Hamas was defeated.

"Israel is serious in its intention to reach a deal of hostages and a ceasefire in Gaza. I believe it can be achieved," Foreign Minister Sa'ar said, referring to Israeli facts "sending delegates to negotiate in Doha and approving proposals by the Special Envoy (United States) (Steve) Witkoff, which will cover a 60-day ceasefire in exchange for the release of about half of the hostages in Gaza in the first phase.

Indirect negotiations between Israel and Hamas over the ceasefire are underway this week in Doha, along with PM Netanyahu's visit to Washington, where Israel and the US are intensifying efforts to reach an agreement.

Foreign Minister Sa'ar stressed "Hamas are still holding 50 of our hostages" and that the war "can end tomorrow if Hamas releases them and lay their weapons."

"We always prefer to achieve our goals through diplomatic channels. However, it must be clear: Hamas is not only responsible for starting this war, but also for its continuation. Pressure must be put on Hamas," he said.