Media: US urges Israel to postpone Gaza operation amid hostage talks

The US has urged Israel to postpone the launch of a full-scale ground operation in the Gaza Strip, emphasising the importance of allowing more time for hostage negotiations.

Washington is reportedly pressing for a delay to maximise the chances of a breakthrough in talks aimed at securing the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas, Caliber.Az reports via Israeli media.

The US officials have outlined two key requests: first, to hold off on launching a broader ground assault; and second, to permit negotiations to proceed in parallel with any ongoing limited military activity. Despite US appeals, Israeli officials have indicated that a large-scale military campaign is already underway and that there are no plans to retreat from areas under Israeli control.

The likelihood of a ceasefire agreement being introduced at this stage appears slim. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz reaffirmed that military operations will continue until all objectives are fully achieved. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Israel would be open to a temporary pause in hostilities — but only if there is a credible and immediate opportunity to secure the hostages’ release.

By Naila Huseynova