In response to international calls for a ceasefire, Israel’s Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, has pledged to maintain “overall security” control over the Gaza Strip.

This declaration comes amid an ongoing conflict with Hamas. The situation has escalated, with the Hamas-run health ministry reporting a death toll of over 10,000 people due to Israel’s bombardment in response to an October 7 attack.

Over 1.5 million people in Gaza have been displaced, seeking refuge within the territory.

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Netanyahu emphasized that Israel would continue the war until they regain “overall security” control over Gaza, advocating for governance by those who oppose the path taken by Hamas.

He stated, “Israel will, for an indefinite period, have the overall security responsibility.” Netanyahu also expressed concerns about the eruption of Hamas terror in the absence of this security responsibility.

While some key allies, like the United States, are advocating for a humanitarian “pause” in the conflict, several countries and UN agencies have consistently called for a ceasefire.

However, Netanyahu has remained resistant to these appeals. He insisted, “There will be no ceasefire – general ceasefire – in Gaza, without the release of our hostages.”

Referring to the October 7 attack where Hamas took hostages, Netanyahu mentioned, “As far as tactical, little pauses… we’ve had them before.

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I suppose we’ll check the circumstances in order to enable goods – humanitarian goods – to come in or our hostages, individual hostages, to leave.”

When asked if there would be a pause in hostilities if Hamas released the hostages, Netanyahu explained, “there would be a ceasefire for that purpose, and we’re waiting for that to happen.”

He did not disclose whether Israel knows the exact location of the hostages in Gaza.

Netanyahu’s comments followed discussions with US President Joe Biden regarding potential “tactical pauses” in the conflict. Nevertheless, no agreements or ceasefire discussions were announced.

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One month into the war, the death toll in Gaza continues to rise, with over 10,000 casualties reported, including more than 4,000 children.

The Israeli army has intensified its efforts, conducting significant strikes on 450 targets over a 24-hour period and targeting Hamas commanders in underground tunnels near the Gaza border