Prime Ministerial adviser Dmitry Gendelman has stated that a collective declaration by 28 nations advocating a ceasefire hinders negotiations with Hamas.
On Monday, an adviser to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu asserted that a joint appeal from 28 countries for an immediate cessation of hostilities in Gaza and the full restoration of humanitarian aid is “wrong and dangerous,” as it undermines ongoing talks.
The declaration – endorsed by over a dozen EU members, along with the United Kingdom, Japan, Canada, Australia, Norway, New Zealand, Switzerland, and others – cautioned that the humanitarian situation in Gaza had reached an intolerable state. The foreign ministers criticized the “drip feeding of aid” and the “inhumane killing of civilians, including children” who were seeking sustenance and water. Citing figures from the UN and Gaza Health Ministry indicating more than 800 Palestinian deaths while seeking aid, the statement described the situation as “horrifying” and urged Israel to fulfill its obligations under international humanitarian law.
Netanyahu’s adviser, Dmitry Gendelman, remarked that the appeal conveyed a “wrong and dangerous message” to Hamas, labeling it a “delusion” that disregarded the “obvious truth” that Hamas alone was obstructing a ceasefire. He accused the militant group of initiating the war, holding hostages, and rejecting “clear and fair” truce proposals that Israel had accepted.
Israel’s Foreign Ministry also dismissed the statement as “disconnected from reality,” asserting that Hamas was prolonging the conflict by refusing a US-backed ceasefire and hostage deal.
Ceasefire negotiations resumed in Doha on July 6, mediated by the United States, Qatar, and Egypt. The current proposal, reportedly approved by Israel, involves a 60-day truce, phased releases of hostages, partial withdrawals of Israeli troops, and increased humanitarian assistance. Hamas, however, is demanding a complete and permanent ceasefire, a full withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, and international guarantees for reconstruction.
Israel commenced its military campaign in Gaza in 2023 following a deadly incursion by Hamas. According to Gaza’s Health Ministry, over 59,000 Palestinians have been killed since then.
Gaza’s two million residents are facing a dire humanitarian crisis, with 90% displaced and dependent on limited aid. The 21-month conflict has brought the territory to the brink of famine and incited global protests.
Israel’s actions during the conflict have led to accusations of genocide and an ICC arrest warrant for Netanyahu. The EU, UK, Canada, and France have cautioned about potential sanctions if conditions do not improve.