Netanyahu: Israel Will Finish the Fight If Hamas Ceasefire Terms Not Met

WASHINGTON D.C (VINnews)-Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu concluded what he described as a “historic visit” to Washington on Wednesday, following what he called a “historic victory” over Iran. Speaking alongside President Trump, Netanyahu said agreements had been reached on Gaza and broader regional issues, though details would be disclosed “in due time.”

Netanyahu said Israel is currently pursuing a deal for the release of approximately half of the remaining hostages—both living and deceased—in exchange for a 60-day temporary ceasefire in Gaza. The ceasefire would serve as a prelude to negotiations on a permanent end to the war, under the condition that Hamas lays down its arms and Gaza is fully demilitarized.

“If this can be achieved through negotiations—great,” Netanyahu said. “If not, it will be achieved by force, the force of our heroic army.”

He drew parallels to the U.S.-led negotiations with Iran, saying the goal of removing the nuclear threat must also be achieved “within 60 days,” diplomatically or otherwise.

Netanyahu acknowledged public frustration with the pace of the conflict, but emphasized the complexity of the battlefield and the progress made. “We dismantled most of Hamas’s military capabilities—but not all. There are still thousands of armed terrorists,” he said.

The prime minister also addressed U.S. pressure during the campaign. “They told us not to enter Rafah, not to conquer the Philadelphi Corridor. We overcame that too.”

He reiterated that if the core goals of eliminating Hamas’s military and governing abilities are not met through talks, Israel will resume combat. “They told us we wouldn’t return to war—after the first, second, third ceasefires. But we did. And we will if necessary.”

Netanyahu also met with families of hostages while in Washington, both of the living and deceased. “We are determined to bring them all back,” he said, while admitting the sequencing of any hostage release may not be fully under Israeli control.

“We are dealing with a cruel terrorist organization,” he said. “Not everything is in our hands—but we will do everything to maximize the release.”