Gaza Herald- Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed on Thursday that Israel would begin immediate talks to secure the release of all hostages in Gaza, signaling a potential shift toward ending the nearly two-year-long conflict, but only on conditions Israel finds “acceptable.”
In a speech to soldiers in Gaza, Netanyahu shared that he had met with military leaders to approve plans to seize control of Gaza City and defeat Hamas. He said, “We’re now at the point of achieving a decisive victory. I came today to the Gaza Division to approve the IDF’s plans for capturing Gaza City and defeating Hamas.”
He added, “At the same time, I’ve instructed that immediate negotiations begin for the release of all hostages and for ending the war under terms that are acceptable to Israel.” This came after the Israeli cabinet’s decision that Israel would only agree to end the war if Hamas releases all hostages simultaneously.
Netanyahu stressed that the two objectives, defeating Hamas and securing the release of all hostages—must go hand in hand. He also praised the mobilization of reserve forces, framing their participation as crucial to the mission.
Meanwhile, the Israeli military continues its operations in Gaza City, with 60,000 reservists being called up as part of its broader strategy, despite mounting international criticism of the ongoing conflict.
Hamas, on the other hand, has agreed to a ceasefire proposal that would last for 60 days, which includes the release of 10 living hostages and 18 bodies in exchange for about 200 Palestinian prisoners. However, Israel has not responded formally, maintaining that all hostages must be freed at once, raising questions about Israel’s commitment to genuine peace efforts.
