Jerusalem, Jan 19 (EFE).– Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar Sunday said that peace and stability in the region are unattainable as long as Hamas remains in power in Gaza.
He characterized the current ceasefire as a temporary measure, emphasizing the group’s continued military and governmental presence as a major obstacle to long-term stability.
«If (Hamas) will stay in power, the regional instability it causes might continue,» Saar told reporters.
He acknowledged that Israel’s offensive had not achieved its goal of dismantling Hamas’ military and governmental capabilities, a mission he insisted remains a priority.
He said Hamas had rather advanced, turning «from a terrorist army to a guerrilla group.”
«Theoretically,” he said, dismantling Hamas as a military power and ruling outfit in Gaza was achievable by an agreement, which will be negotiated in the future during the first phase of the truce.
The ceasefire, which began at 11:15 local time (9:15 GMT), is part of a phased agreement.
In its first 42-day phase, it mandates a gradual Israeli troop withdrawal from Gaza, with hostilities potentially ending in a second phase that requires negotiation starting on day 16 of the truce.
Saar’s remarks underscore Israel’s position that the truce is a temporary measure rather than a pathway to a comprehensive peace, highlighting ongoing tensions and uncertainty surrounding the conflict. EFE
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