Israel declares phase one of ceasefire complete, reaffirms stance on Hamas in Gaza

Israel’s Defence Minister, Israel Katz, has declared that phase one of the ongoing ceasefire with Hamas is “complete,” highlighting the successful return of hostages from Gaza and Israel’s commitment to securing further releases.

Speaking at a conference of regional council heads, Katz outlined the progress made, Caliber.Az reports citing Israeli media.

“We have returned 25 hostages alive, including female soldiers. This was not the case in earlier negotiations, where the numbers discussed were 10 or 12. We also brought back eight deceased people. We aim to bring them all back,” Katz stated.

He emphasized that the primary goal of the ceasefire was to secure the return of both living and deceased hostages.

Katz also made it clear that Israel’s military readiness remains a central part of its strategy, asserting that “the most effective way to ensure this is for Hamas to know that the IDF is ready to return to war. That is the truth.”

He stressed that the ceasefire was not a result of military exhaustion or a shortage of ammunition, but solely to facilitate the release of hostages, which he described as “our top priority, our moral obligation, and our mutual responsibility.”

Despite the ceasefire, Katz reiterated Israel’s firm stance on Hamas’ control of Gaza, declaring, “Hamas will not remain in control of Gaza, neither civilly nor militarily. This will not happen because it cannot happen.”

Katz also referenced US President Donald Trump’s plan, which encourages Palestinian emigration, stating that he is “rapidly advancing the establishment of a voluntary immigration administration to allow those who wish to leave Gaza to do so via Ashdod Port or Ramon Airport.” This proposal seeks to provide an option for those wanting to leave the region in the wake of ongoing tensions.

By Vafa Guliyeva