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Netanyahu Affirms Commitment to Hostage Release Amidst Gaza Conflict Negotiations
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has refuted claims from Hamas and Israeli demonstrators suggesting his government is not seriously pursuing negotiations for the release of hostages held in Gaza. Netanyahu stated on Sunday his firm dedication to securing an agreement for the captives’ freedom, emphasizing that military pressure has proven effective in advancing negotiations with Hamas.
Negotiations Underway Amidst Military Operations
Addressing his cabinet, the Prime Minister declared, “We are willing. We are engaged in negotiations even as operations continue,” further noting, “We observe indications of weakening” in Hamas‘s demands during these discussions.
Netanyahu asserted the efficacy of military action, explaining, “Military pressure is yielding results. Its effectiveness stems from its dual approach: simultaneously weakening Hamas‘s military and governing capabilities, while also creating the necessary conditions for securing the release of our hostages.”
Increased Pressure on Hamas for Hostage Return
The Prime Minister disclosed that the security cabinet convened on Saturday night and resolved to intensify the existing pressure on Hamas. This escalation aims to further weaken the organization and establish optimal circumstances for the hostage release.
Public Protests Demand Hostage Prioritization
Over the weekend, tens of thousands of protesters gathered in Tel Aviv and across Israel, accusing Prime Minister Netanyahu of diminishing the priority of a deal to secure the freedom of those still held captive in Gaza.
Einav Zangauker, mother of Matan Zangauker, a hostage held by Hamas, spoke to demonstrators in Tel Aviv’s Habima Square. She alleged that Netanyahu was carrying out a “targeted assassination” against her son, referencing the Israel Defense Forces’ recent aerial assault on Gaza.
Zangauker stated, “Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has chosen to bomb Matan instead of rescuing him and facilitating his return home.”
Hostage Situation in Gaza
Out of the 251 individuals taken hostage during Hamas‘s 2023 attack on Israel, 58 remain in Gaza, with the Israeli military reporting 34 of them as deceased.
Netanyahu Outlines Hamas Demands and Potential Agreement
Facing mounting international and domestic pressure, Netanyahu emphasized Hamas‘s required disarmament. He suggested that their leaders could be permitted to depart following this action, and Israel was open to discussing the “final phase” of a hostage release–ceasefire agreement with the militant group.
“We are prepared,” he affirmed. “Hamas will surrender their weapons. Their commanders will be allowed to leave. We will ensure comprehensive security within the Gaza Strip and facilitate the implementation of the Trump plan, the voluntary emigration initiative.”
Donald Trump’s administration had previously proposed a plan to relocate Gaza‘s population to neighboring Egypt and Jordan, a proposition widely criticized by the international community.
Mediation Efforts and Proposed Ceasefire
Netanyahu’s comments coincide with ongoing mediation efforts by Egypt, Qatar, and the US to broker a ceasefire and secure the release of the Israeli hostages.
Reportedly, Hamas offered on Saturday to release five living Israeli hostages in exchange for a 50-day ceasefire, and released a video appeal from a captive.
Hamas leader Khalil al-Hayya stated the group’s willingness to free the five hostages during Eid al-Fitr, following a proposal received from Egypt and Qatar, as reported by Reuters.
“We received a proposal from mediators in Egypt and Qatar two days ago. We responded positively and accepted it,” Hayya announced in a televised address. “We hope the [Israeli] occupation will not obstruct it.”
Hamas announced its acceptance of a new ceasefire proposal and urged Israeli support. Netanyahu’s office confirmed receipt and indicated a submitted counterproposal from Israel.
Details of mediation remain undisclosed, but Israeli media suggests Netanyahu’s government insists on the release of 10 out of 24 hostages.
Netanyahu’s Planned Visit to Hungary
Netanyahu’s office announced a visit to Hungary on April 2, despite an International Criminal Court arrest warrant against him for alleged war crimes in Gaza.
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán extended the invitation in November after the ICC warrant was issued.
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