Israel accused Hamas of delaying a truce deal to ensure the survival of its leader Yahya Sinwar

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Israel has accused Hamas of deliberately delaying a truce agreement in order to ensure the survival of its leader, Yahya Sinwar. According to Israel’s National Security Advisor, Tzaji Hanegbi, Sinwar is responsible for the delays in reaching a new truce as he fears that agreeing to certain terms would put his own survival at risk.

The parties have been negotiating a document that includes the release of hostages held by pro-Iranian terrorists in exchange for the release of Palestinian prisoners, humanitarian aid for Gaza, and a cessation of attacks. Hamas recently sent a delegation to Egypt for further talks, but a leader from the group stated that they will not accept any agreement that does not guarantee the end of the conflict.

Israel believes that the hostages are Sinwar’s last card to stay alive, describing him as a “Nazi murderer” responsible for thousands of deaths in Israel and among his own people. Hanegbi stated that it is difficult for Sinwar to make a decision that could lead to the end of the Hamas government, hence the delays in reaching a truce.

Despite ongoing negotiations, Israel reiterated its commitment to eliminating Hamas in the Gaza Strip. The country’s War Cabinet is considering launching a military operation in Rafah, with plans to evacuate civilians before targeting Hamas forces in the area.

Hanegbi emphasized that a truce does not mean an end to the conflict, and Israel will continue to pursue its goal of eradicating Hamas. He ruled out establishing an Israeli civil administration in Gaza, stating that control of security remains a priority in defeating the terrorist organization.

In a comparison with the fight against the Nazis, Hanegbi asserted that defeating Hamas is the primary objective, and no other entity will take control of Gaza while the group remains in power. As negotiations continue, the fate of the truce and the future of Hamas in Gaza remain uncertain.