Israel says not committed to Hamas ceasefire, only to safe corridor for U.S. hostage release
The Hindu
Israel's PM denies ceasefire with Hamas, agrees to safe corridor for hostage release; ongoing negotiations amid tensions.
Israel has not agreed to any ceasefire or release of prisoners with Hamas, but only to a safe corridor to allow the release of Israeli-American hostage Edan Alexander, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Monday (May 12, 2025) .
Israel was informed a day earlier of Hamas' decision to release Alexander, the last surviving the U.S. hostage, as a goodwill gesture towards President Donald Trump after four-way talks between Hamas, the United States, Egypt and Qatar.
The release, which could come as early as Monday (May 12, 2025), could open the way to freeing the rest of the 59 hostages still held in Gaza, but Mr. Netanyahusaid Israeli forces would continue recently announced preparations to step up operations there.
"The negotiations will continue under fire, during preparations for an intensification of the fighting," his office said in a statement.
On Sunday (May 12, 2025), Hamas said it had been talking with the United States and had agreed to release Alexander, a move key Arab mediators Qatar and Egypt called an encouraging step towards a return to ceasefire talks in the war-torn enclave.
The talks came shortly before Mr. Trumpis set to leave for a visit to the Gulf that will not include a stop in Israel.
U.S. officials have tried to calm fears in Israel of a growing distance between Israel and Mr. Trump, who last week announced an end to a U.S. campaign against the Iranian-backed Houthis in Yemen, who have continued to fire missiles at Israel.
Harvard professor Carlos Portugal Gouvea arrested for discharging a pellet gun near a synagogue; agrees to leave the U.S.
Macron cautioned Zelenskyy that the U.S. might pressure Ukraine into territorial concessions to Russia without security guarantees.
A Canadian national was arrested at the Indo-Nepal border for using a fake immigration stamp on his passport.
Appeals court permits Trump to maintain National Guard deployment in D.C., reversing a lower court's order to withdraw troops.
Iraq retracts its terror designation of Hezbollah and Houthis, citing an error amid regional political pressures and public backlash.
U.S. military strikes drug boats amid scrutiny over legality and rising casualties, prompting investigations and conflicting congressional testimonies.
Indian envoy Santosh Jha meets Sri Lanka’s Housing Minister to discuss reconstruction efforts following Cyclone Ditwah's devastating impact.
The U.S. and Kenya sign a $2.5 billion health deal, marking the start of "America First" global health agreements.
Explore the resilience and daily realities of Ukrainians enduring relentless warfare in a country forever changed by conflict.
Trump's envoys engage with Ukraine amid eased sanctions on Russia, seeking to advance peace negotiations following recent talks with Putin.
Explore China's rural revitalization efforts, showcasing poverty alleviation, local spirit, and sustainable development in its diverse landscapes.
UN Security Council delegates visit Syria for the first time since 1945, aiming to build trust and support national reconciliation.
U.S. reduces work permit validity for refugees and asylum seekers to 18 months, citing public safety concerns following recent violence.