The likelihood of reaching an agreement between Israel and the Palestinian Hamas movement on a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and the release of hostages has not only remained intact but has even increased following the deaths of Hamas political bureau chief Ismail Haniyeh and Hezbollah military commander Fuad Shukr in Beirut, according to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
According to Report, in an interview with Time magazine, Netanyahu stated that the absence of these "radical elements" has removed obstacles to a potential deal. "Yes, I believe so," he responded when asked if the chances of a deal remained after the deaths of Shukr and Haniyeh. "In fact, I think the probability has increased because some of the radical elements that opposed the deal are no longer with us."
Netanyahu declined to comment on Israel's involvement in the killing of the Hamas political chief.