Netanyahu states under what conditions Israel will cease hostilities

Israel will cease combat operations in the Gaza Strip if the Palestinian Hamas movement releases hostages held in the enclave. This was stated to reporters by Danny Danon, Israel's permanent representative to the United Nations.

"It would be a miracle, and I believe that [the release of hostages] would halt our activities in Gaza," he said in response to a question about Israel's reaction to the return of hostages held in the enclave. "In reality, this could happen tomorrow morning if Hamas releases the hostages, but unfortunately, I am not optimistic that this will occur."