"Israel is conducting intensive negotiations with the mediators in a massive effort to reach a deal, Hamas continues to firmly refuse any offer," Netanyahu said. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu blamed Hamas for the absence of a Gaza and hostage deal, as the nation reeled from the return of the bodies of six hostages recently killed in captivity in Gaza. 'Those who murder hostages - do not want a deal' 'Worse than that, at that very moment,' while talks were being held, Hamas 'murdered six of our hostages,' Netanyahu stated. 'Those who murder hostages - do not want a deal,' Netanyahu stated. We, for our part, did not let up. The Israeli government is committed, and I am personally committed, to continue pursuing a deal that will return all of our hostages and guarantee our security and existence,' he said."