MUSCAT : Netanyahu’s declaration marks a significant shift in Israel’s stance as pressure mounts both domestically and internationally to end the conflict. “Israel will begin ceasefire negotiations in Gaza to end the war and release the hostages,” he said, stressing that any agreement must safeguard Israel’s security interests.

The announcement follows weeks of diplomatic maneuvering. In a parallel effort to ease tensions abroad, Netanyahu dispatched his top foreign-policy aide to the United Arab Emirates earlier this week. The visit sought to mend relations strained by Israel’s Gaza campaign and ongoing settlement expansion in the West Bank, according to people familiar with the matter.

While no timeline has been set for the talks, the move is seen as a step toward possible de-escalation in Gaza.

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