(JTA) — Tzachi Hanegbi, the national security adviser to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, stated that the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas is expected to continue until the end of the year, potentially making it one of Israel’s longest conflicts.
Hanegbi’s prediction of the conflict lasting until January could escalate tensions with the Biden administration, which is pushing for a ceasefire to be implemented.
Speaking to Kan, Israel’s public broadcaster, Hanegbi emphasized the need for seven more months of fighting to achieve the goal of destroying Hamas’ governing and military capabilities. Israel recently entered the city of Rafah, marking a significant stage in the battle against Hamas according to Netanyahu.
The Biden administration has been advocating for a temporary ceasefire as a step towards a more permanent resolution to the hostilities. The administration has placed responsibility on Hamas for not agreeing to ceasefire terms that include the release of hostages held by the group in exchange for Palestinian security prisoners. Hamas, on the other hand, is demanding a complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from the region.
While John Kirby, the spokesman for the White House National Security Council, refrained from commenting on Israel’s war plans, he expressed the White House’s preference for a swift resolution to the conflict.
President Biden is committed to facilitating the return of hostages held by Hamas and other groups in dire conditions. The administration views a temporary ceasefire as a potential pathway towards a lasting peace agreement. Kirby emphasized the importance of securing the release of hostages in exchange for implementing a ceasefire that could pave the way for a sustainable resolution to the conflict.