Netanyahu says Israel to begin Gaza ceasefire negotiations to end war

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed soldiers in Gaza, saying he was meeting with commanders to approve operations to capture Gaza City and dismantle Hamas.

"At the same time I have issued instructions to begin immediate negotiations for the release of all our hostages and an end to the war on terms acceptable to Israel," he said, adding: "We are in the decision-making phase."

The Israeli military continued operations in Gaza City, while on Wednesday, 60,000 reservists were called up, signaling that the government intends to move forward with its plans despite international criticism. The mobilization is expected to take weeks, allowing mediators time to work on a proposed temporary ceasefire.

Hamas has reportedly accepted a 60-day ceasefire and the release of 10 living hostages and 18 bodies, with Israel expected to release about 200 long-serving Palestinian prisoners.

Israel insists that all remaining 50 hostages be released immediately, with officials estimating around 20 are still alive.