UN resolution backfires as Hamas rejects cease-fire

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu firmly stated that Israel will not acquiesce to Hamas' demands for a cease-fire after the militant group rebuffed the most recent proposal for a truce.

As AP reports, in response to Hamas' rejection late Monday, Netanyahu denounced the group's stance as "delusional" and affirmed Israel's commitment to dismantling Hamas' military and governing capabilities. The rejection came despite the United Nations Security Council's endorsement of a resolution on Monday, urging an immediate cease-fire and the release of hostages held by Hamas.

Israel's Foreign Minister Israel Katz criticized the resolution, arguing that it emboldened Hamas to dismiss the proposed cease-fire deal. Katz asserted that the resolution failed to condemn Hamas adequately, leading to its rejection of the proposal and exacerbating tensions in the region.

Meanwhile, Hamas reiterated its demands, including an end to the war and a complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza. The group accused Israel of disregarding these core demands, signaling a continuation of hostilities.

As the standoff persists, both sides remain entrenched in their positions, with Netanyahu reaffirming Israel's determination to combat Hamas until its military and governing capabilities are neutralized.

The rejection of the cease-fire proposal follows an attack on October 7, where militants launched a surprise assault from Gaza, resulting in the deaths of 1,200 people and the abduction of 250 others. Hamas still holds around 100 Israelis hostage and the remains of 30 more. Amid escalating tensions, U.S. and Israeli defense chiefs are set to meet, with President Trump urging Israel to conclude its offensive in Gaza amidst concerns of waning global support. In Jerusalem, the festive holiday Purim is overshadowed by the ongoing conflict.

[With information sourced from AP]