Netanyahu insists on conditions for ceasefire in Israel-Gaza conflict, asserting continued operations till goals achieved

Welcome to our latest live blog discussing the unfolding events of the conflict between Israel and Gaza within the broader Middle East context. Here are the most recent developments:

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has stated that any agreement with Gaza must allow for continued military action until Israel achieves its objectives, according to Reuters.

Hamas is seeking international mediators who can guarantee a permanent ceasefire; however, Netanyahu reiterates the intention to continue offensive actions against Hamas's military and governing infrastructure throughout any peace process, as reported by Associated Press.

"A deal should enable Israel to persist in its efforts until all goals are reached," Prime Minister Netanyahu said on Sunday.

Following a previous agreement where Gaza agreed to key terms of the plan, officials from Hamas indicated that they are waiting for Israel's response regarding their latest proposal. The group has shifted focus away from insisting on an immediate permanent ceasefire and instead proposes negotiations during the first six weeks of the initial phase under a US-brokered deal proposed by President Joe Biden, which was mediated by Qatar and Egypt.

Prime Minister Netanyahu reassured that Israel's plan will allow for the release of hostages without compromising other war objectives. Consultations are set to continue on potential next steps in discussions about a three-phase plan initiated earlier this year.

Meanwhile, Hamas has reportedly voiced concerns over attempts by the Israeli government to undermine the US-brokered ceasefire proposal, with claims of Israel introducing additional demands despite previous acceptance, as per Israeli media reports.

Protests have erupted across various regions in Israel, calling for a resolution on hostage negotiations with Hamas, resulting in traffic disruptions and civilian demonstrations.

In Gaza, health officials reported casualties due to recent Israeli military operations: six people were killed in two separate strikes within the region. Additionally, Lebanon's Hezbollah has launched rocket attacks on northern Israel as a show of solidarity with Hamas amidst these tensions.

According to Gaza's health ministry, since October 7th, more than 38,000 Palestinians have lost their lives and over 87,000 sustained injuries during Israel's military operations in the region.