Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has expressed sorrow over the deaths of six hostages, saying the killings prove that Hamas does not want a cease-fire deal.

Netanyahu said Sunday that he was heartbroken to hear the news of the hostages' deaths.

He accused Hamas of killing them in “cold blood” and said Israel would hold the group accountable. He also accused the group of scuttling ongoing cease-fire efforts.

“Whoever murders hostages doesn't want a deal,” he said.

Critics in Israel have accused Netanyahu of dragging his feet in cease-fire talks — a charge he denies.