Indirect talks about a ceasefire between Israel and terrorist-stamped Hamas have been held in Qatar's capital Doha since Sunday.
The US envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, has proposed a 60-day ceasefire in exchange for the release of half of the 20 living hostages still being held by Hamas, according to Netanyahu.
In the beginning of this ceasefire, we will initiate negotiations to achieve a permanent end to the war, says Netanyahu in a video message from Washington where he is.
He says that a "fundamental requirement" is that Hamas lays down its arms and no longer has "governing and military capabilities".
If this can be achieved through negotiations, it is good. If it cannot be achieved through negotiations within 60 days, we will achieve it in other ways, through strength – the strength of our heroic military.
Hamas announced on Wednesday that they agree to release ten living hostages, but says on Thursday that they oppose an agreement that involves a greater Israeli military presence in Gaza.
The terrorist organization also wants a free flow of aid to the territory to alleviate the humanitarian crisis and "real guarantees" for a sustainable peace.
