Cliff Notes
- A senior Israeli official expressed doubts about the lasting impact of a potential 60-day ceasefire in Gaza, stating it may only occur within one to two weeks.
- The official highlighted that successful negotiations for a permanent settlement are uncertain and dependent on the removal of Hamas from the region.
- Concerns over the Israel Defence Forces’ presence in Gaza remain a sticking point, with the official emphasising Israel’s intent to ensure Hamas’ complete defeat.
Gaza permanent ceasefire ‘questionable’, says senior Israeli official
A senior Israeli official has issued a less-than-optimistic assessment of the permanency of any ceasefire in Gaza.
Speaking in Washington on condition of anonymity, the senior official said that a 60-day ceasefire “might” be possible within “a week, two weeks – not a day”.
But on the chances of the ceasefire lasting beyond 60 days, the official said: “We will begin negotiations on a permanent settlement.
“But we achieve it? It’s questionable, but Hamas will not be there.”
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is due to conclude a four-day visit to Washington later today.
There had been hope that a ceasefire could be announced during the trip. US President Donald Trump has repeatedly stated that it’s close.
