We will not negotiate under fire — PM

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stresses that Israel will not go on with the Egyptian-brokered negotiations while rockets continue to pummel southern Israel.

“Israel will not negotiate under fire,” he says, reiterating the government’s official policy. “We will do everything to change the present reality, to bring quiet to all citizens.”

“Operation Protective Edge is ongoing,” he says. “At no point did we declare it over. The operation will continue until its goal is met — restoring long-term quiet. I said all along, it will take time and requires patience.”

Defense Minister Moshe Ya’alon adds that Hamas’s threats will not change the Israeli position.

“If Hamas thinks it will wear us out, it is wrong,” he says. “We will return to the talks only when there is a ceasefire.”

Ya’alon also addresses safety concerns voiced by many southern residents.

“I understand the southern residents who expect quiet and security. As we said when we started the campaign and throughout — we will not compromise on anything, and we will continue until we achieve a complete cessation of fire.”