Contradictory statements emerged on Thursday regarding Israel’s purported agreement to implement daily, four-hour humanitarian pauses in its military operations against Hamas in Gaza. National Security Council spokesman John Kirby announced the decision, stating that Israel would suspend military activities during these designated hours. However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office swiftly dismissed the White House’s assertion, emphasizing that the fighting would persist.
The White House spokesperson, John Kirby, indicated that the Israeli government planned to announce the start of these pauses three hours in advance and would focus on creating a humanitarian corridor for Palestinians to evacuate northern Gaza to its south. President Biden reportedly urged Netanyahu for a longer cessation, emphasizing the release of hostages.
Contrary to these claims, Netanyahu’s office asserted, “The fighting continues, and there will be no ceasefire without the release of our hostages.” Israel emphasized its facilitation of safe transit corridors from the north to the south of Gaza, encouraging civilian evacuation. The ongoing conflict has prompted pressure from the Biden administration on Israel to implement humanitarian pauses.
Reports suggest that Israel has already been implementing similar pauses since Sunday, allowing a four-hour daily humanitarian corridor for Palestinian evacuations. However, the conflicting statements underscore the complex and sensitive nature of the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas.
Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant reiterated Israel’s objectives during a meeting with the 252nd Sinai Division, emphasizing the need to destroy terrorist infrastructure in Beit Hanoun. The minister expressed a commitment to eradicating the Hamas organization by targeting military depots, communication channels, tunnels, bunkers, and headquarters.
The situation remains tense, with conflicting reports and statements reflecting the challenges of finding common ground amid the ongoing hostilities in the region.