Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar on Wednesday expressed Jerusalem’s readiness to pursue a permanent cessation of hostilities in Gaza, contingent on a preliminary temporary ceasefire and the release of hostages held by Hamas.
“We said yes to [U.S.] Special Envoy [Steve] Witkoff’s proposals,” Israel’s top diplomat said during a press conference in Bratislava, Slovakia. “Israel is serious in its will to reach a hostage deal and a ceasefire. I believe it’s achievable.”
Speaking alongside Slovak Foreign Minister Juraj Blanár, Sa’ar added, “If a temporary ceasefire is reached, we will negotiate a permanent ceasefire.”
Regarding the two-year war in Gaza, he emphasized that “war itself is not an objective,” adding that Israel prefers to achieve its goals through diplomacy.
Sa’ar reminded that Hamas is responsible for both initiating and prolonging the conflict. “The war in Gaza could end tomorrow if Hamas releases the 50 hostages and lays down its weapons,” he said.
He emphasized the longstanding friendship between Israel and Slovakia, expressing gratitude for Bratislava’s continued support. “We share common values, a mutual commitment to security, and we will strengthen our cooperation on defense issues,” he said.
Recalling Slovakia’s once-vibrant Jewish community, the minister honored its history, including the legacy of the renowned Rabbi Chatam Sofer (1762-1839), and expressed gratitude for the country’s efforts to preserve Holocaust memory, as well as for establishing the Slovak Institute in Jerusalem.
He also highlighted Israel’s recent operation targeting Iran’s nuclear and missile infrastructure, describing it as a direct contribution to European security.
Regarding humanitarian aid in Gaza, the minister stated that Israel is working in good faith, expanding routes and crossings, and collaborating with the European Union to ensure supplies reach civilians, not Hamas. He praised the U.S.- and Israel-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation for helping to bypass Hamas’ control of resources.
Sa’ar encouraged more Israeli tourists to visit Slovakia, describing it as a “beautiful country,” and extended a personal invitation for Minister Blanár to visit Jerusalem, signaling strengthened bilateral relations.
