More than 65 Former Hostages Urge Netanyahu and Trump: “There is a Real Opportunity to Return to Negotiations and Finalize a Comprehensive Deal”
Former Hostages’ Plea Following Recent Release
Over 65 former hostages have signed an appeal directed to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and members of the government, underscoring a potential breakthrough in negotiations within the current regional context. The appeal was also sent in English to U.S. President Donald Trump and special envoy Steve Whitcoff. This initiative follows the recent release of hostage Idan Alexander, stirring hope among families of hostages and former captives that viable negotiations may be imminent.
Content of the Appeal
The letter commends the release of Idan Alexander and expresses optimism regarding current opportunities for the Israeli government to return to the negotiating table. The signatories implore all involved parties to persistently engage in discussions until a comprehensive deal is secured. They highlight that a majority of Israeli society desires the safe return of abducted individuals, even at the cost of ceasing hostilities, and emphasizes the paramount importance of human life and the return of fallen soldiers to Israel.
The letter reads: “We, the former hostages who were kidnapped on October 7 during a state failure, are glad and commend the release of hostage Idan Alexander. We believe that the Israeli government now has a genuine opportunity to return to the negotiating table. We urge you, all involved in this matter, not to leave the table until a comprehensive deal is signed.”
Call for Action
The involved former hostages stress that the U.S. President, Prime Minister Netanyahu, and all stakeholders should not halt the historical momentum and call for the liberation of all their fellow countrymen and women from their perilous circumstances-regardless of their citizenship status. Only the immediate return of all hostages through an agreement will lay the groundwork for a life filled with hope and unity.
Among the individuals who signed the appeal are Yair Horen, Jordan Bibas, Omer Shem Tov, Keith Siegel, and many others, reflecting a wide spectrum of experiences and backgrounds, all unified in their plea for action.
This call for negotiations aims to foster a broader dialogue surrounding the crisis and to encourage a concerted effort towards the resolution of hostage situations in a manner that prioritizes human dignity and safety