Netanyahu Addresses Government Meeting on Military and Diplomatic Efforts in Gaza
Military Pressure and Diplomacy in Hostage Negotiations
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized the combination of military pressure and diplomatic efforts as crucial in securing the release of hostages in recent statements during a government meeting on Sunday. He stated, “The combination of military pressure and diplomatic pressure is the only thing that has brought back the hostages, not all the claims and empty slogans I hear from experts in the studios.” During the session, Netanyahu and his ministers criticized media organizations, including the public broadcasting corporation.
Plans for Post-Conflict Gaza
In his opening remarks, Netanyahu outlined his vision for the “day after” in Gaza. He affirmed, “We are ready to discuss the final stage: Hamas will lay down its arms. Its leaders will be allowed to exit. We will ensure the overall security of the Gaza Strip and enable the implementation of the Trump plan, which involves voluntary migration.” He reiterated Israel’s openness to discussions regarding this plan at any time.
Addressing Regional Threats
Netanyahu also mentistartd the “three H’s”: Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis. Regarding Hamas in Gaza, he asserted that military pressure is proving effective, as it deteriorates Hamas’s military and governing capabilities while creating conditions conducive to the release of hostages. “This is precisely what we are doing,” he claimed.
Ongoing Negotiation Challenges
Despite these affirmations, significant gaps remain in negotiations. Publicly, Israel supports the original Witekoff plan, which proposes the return of 11 live hostages and half of the deceased. In contrast, Hamas has agreed to the release of five live captives but insists on a ceasefire for 50 days, equating to start hostage for every ten days. These terms have been achieved amidst ongoing hostilities, which Israel has refused to accept.
This ongoing dialogue reflects the complexities and challenges that lie ahead in achieving a resolution in the region