Israel rejects Hamas' ceasefire deal, vows to seize Gaza City

Israel on Wednesday rejected Hamas' proposal for reaching a comprehensive ceasefire deal in Gaza to end the conflict, saying its army will continue to prepare for a major attack on Gaza City.

In a press statement released on Wednesday, Hamas reiterated its willingness to reach a "comprehensive deal" under which Israeli hostages in Gaza would be released in exchange for an agreed number of Palestinian prisoners held in Israel.

According to Hamas, the deal would also include a permanent ceasefire, the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, the reopening of border crossings to allow the delivery of humanitarian aid and essential supplies and the start of reconstruction efforts.

Hamas also voiced support for the establishment of an independent national administration composed of technocrats to take immediate responsibility for managing Gaza's civil affairs.

In response, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu dismissed the statement as "a spin."

In a statement issued by his office, Netanyahu said Israel would agree to a ceasefire only if Hamas accepts full Israeli security control over the Gaza Strip, the demilitarization of Hamas and Gaza, the establishment of a non-Palestinian administration and the release of all hostages.

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz also rejected the Hamas offer, saying the army is continuing preparations "at full strength" to seize Gaza City.

Palestinians reject Israeli minister's remarks on West Bank annexation

Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich said on Wednesday that maps were being drawn up for annexing territory in the occupied West Bank, although it was unclear if he had Netanyahu's support.

Palestinians rejected Smotrich's call, saying it threatened any prospect of a future Palestinian state.

The Palestinian Foreign Ministry urged the international community to impose sanctions to pressure Israel to halt what it called violent oppression and settlement expansion.

Israeli media reported that Netanyahu would meet ministers, including Smotrich, on Thursday to discuss the annexation proposal. Israel's state-owned Kan TV said the move was being considered in response to European efforts to recognize a Palestinian state at the upcoming UN General Assembly in New York.

(With input from agencies)