Hamas' senior leaders 'very clear' they want to 'eradicate Israel'

IDF spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Jonathan Conricus says Hamas' senior leaders are clear they want to "eradicate Israel" with the terrorist organisation not distinguishing between military and civilians.

Mr Conricus said Hamas "are an organisation of liars, and cowards, and corrupt hateful people".

He discussed the upcoming ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, as well as the ongoing situation relating to Israeli hostages and their possible release.

"I don't trust their[Hamas] word for anything they say," Mr Conricus told Sky News Australia.

"Or anything that they claim that they're going to do or have done in the past.

"It's all lies through and through.

"So, we are cautiously optimistic that this agreement will be honoured."