Netanyahu Sees Opportunity to Free Hostages Amid Israel’s Strikes on Iran
Israeli Prime Minister says Gaza negotiations are accelerating, citing momentum from Iran offensive; vows to “destroy Hamas and bring the hostages home.”
Watan-Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Sunday, in a recorded video statement, that he has instructed officials to “accelerate” negotiations for the release of Israelis held in Gaza, citing a “real opportunity” following Israel’s unprecedented attack on Iran.
“Two days ago, I gave instructions to speed up the negotiations, because I feel there is an opportunity… We will accomplish both missions: destroying Hamas and releasing the hostages,” Netanyahu declared, referring to talks with the Palestinian resistance group Hamas over captives in Gaza.
Of the 251 individuals taken hostage during Hamas’s October 7, 2023, attack on Israel, 52 are still held in Gaza, including 34 who the Israeli military believes are dead.
In addition, Hamas retains the remains of an Israeli soldier reportedly killed during the 2014 war in Gaza.
