From: The Jerusalem Post March 2, 2025 Netanyahu thanks Trump for 'unwavering support,' affirms commitment to Witkoff framework
He said in his statement: "Hamas had also put forward positions for a permanent ceasefire that are totally unacceptable,"
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu thanked US President Donald Trump for his support of Israel and affirmed his approval of US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff's ceasefire framework proposal during a Sunday evening government meeting.
Netanyahu's statements came after Israel's ceasefire deal with Hamas expired, and the terror group rejected Witkoff's proposal for a new ceasefire framework.
He also criticized Hamas for their decision to reject the offer.
He said that during his recent visit to Washington, he expressed that Trump is "the greatest friend that Israel has ever had in the White House," and that "President Trump shows that friendship each and every day."
Regarding Witkoff's ceasefire framework, Netanyahu affirmed that Israel has accepted the plan "to extend the temporary ceasefire by 50 days, during that time we can discuss the conditions for a permanent ceasefire that will end the war in Gaza."
"In Witkoff’s plan, half of the hostages would be released right away, and the remaining half would be released if we reach an agreement on a permanent ceasefire."
He emphasized: "Again, Israel has accepted this plan. I accepted this plan. But so far, Hamas has rejected it,"
