Israeli Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir has called on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to accept a current proposal for prisoner exchange, warning that the occupation of Gaza City poses “serious risks” to the lives of hostages, Anadolu Agency reports.

“There is a deal on the table, and it should be taken now,” Zamir said in comments carried by Israeli Channel 13.

“The army has provided the conditions for its completion, and the decision is now in Netanyahu’s hands.”

The army chief renewed his concerns over a plan to occupy Gaza City.

“The army is capable of occupying Gaza, but the operation could seriously endanger the lives of hostages,” he said.