Israeli PM Netanyahu Optimistic About Hostage Deal and Ceasefire with Hamas

Prospects for a Hostage Release Agreement

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has expressed optimism regarding the possibility of finalizing a hostage release agreement with Hamas in the near future. He indicated that such an agreement could lead to a 60-day ceasefire, during which both parties might engage in discussions to resolve the ongoing conflict, as reported by a local media outlet.

Netanyahu's Statements on War Goals

Netanyahu stated, “We believe we can finalize this soon.” He emphasized that Israel's objectives in the conflict are attainable, asserting, “We will defeat these adversaries and secure the release of our hostages.” In an interview with a US media channel, he expressed hope for a resolution within days while indirect negotiations continued in Qatar, despite signs of a stalemate.

Ceasefire and Negotiations

He mentioned, “We are likely to see a 60-day ceasefire, allowing for the initial group of hostages to be released, followed by negotiations to conclude the conflict.” This statement came at the end of a four-day visit where he met with US President Donald Trump on two occasions.

Conditions for Ceasefire

Netanyahu asserted that the conflict could cease immediately if Hamas were to disarm. He conducted multiple interviews with US media during his trip but refrained from speaking to Israeli journalists, according to reports. Amidst claims that the US administration may not permit Israel to resume military actions in Gaza post-ceasefire, Netanyahu reiterated that Israel would re-engage in combat if Hamas does not comply. “We were told we wouldn’t return to war after the first ceasefire, yet we did,” he remarked in a video statement.

Ongoing Negotiations and Sticking Points

Following Hamas's attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, and Israel's subsequent declaration of war, both sides have agreed to ceasefires in November 2023 and January 2025. Reports indicate that the US has assured mediators it does not intend to allow Israel to resume fighting after a potential ceasefire, even if this is not explicitly stated in the ongoing negotiations. The question of whether Israel can restart military operations after the proposed ceasefire and the release of hostages remains a significant hurdle in the discussions, which have yet to yield a breakthrough despite some optimism from leaders.

Hamas's Position on Ceasefire

However, negotiations appear to be stalled, with Hamas opposing any ceasefire that would involve a substantial Israeli military presence in Gaza. They have raised concerns regarding troop withdrawals and the unrestricted flow of aid into the region, alongside demands for “real guarantees” for a lasting peace. Netanyahu stated that Israel is open to discussing the end of the conflict during the ceasefire, provided an agreement is reached with Hamas. However, he emphasized that the war would conclude only on Israel's terms: “Hamas must disarm, Gaza must be demilitarized, and Hamas should no longer possess any military or governmental capabilities.” These conditions have been consistently rejected by Hamas.

Netanyahu's Commitment to War Objectives

“Regardless of the circumstances,” Netanyahu declared, “Israel's objectives will be fulfilled. If we can achieve this through negotiations, that would be ideal. If not, we will resort to other means, utilizing the strength of our brave military.” This statement followed a memorial service for two embassy staff members who were killed in May.

Trump's Remarks on the Situation

In the Oval Office, Trump remarked, “We are nearing a deal regarding Gaza.” This followed Netanyahu's assertion that there was a “good chance” of reaching an agreement, with Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar expressing optimism about concluding 21 months of conflict.

Addressing Criticism of the War Duration

Netanyahu responded to criticism regarding the prolonged duration of the war, stating, “This is a war zone unlike any faced by any army globally. Thanks to the bravery of our soldiers and the sacrifices made, we have dismantled a significant portion of Hamas's military capabilities, though challenges remain.”

Dual Approach to Conflict Resolution

He reiterated Israel's strategy of combining diplomatic efforts with military action, emphasizing that military force would be employed if diplomacy fails. Regarding the sequence of hostage releases, Netanyahu expressed a preference for a simultaneous release but acknowledged the complexities involved, stating, “We are dealing with a ruthless terrorist organization. Our goal is to rescue everyone, and we will strive to maximize the release in the best possible manner.”

Hostage Release Dynamics

Netanyahu informed families of the hostages that Hamas would dictate the order of releases during the 60-day truce. He conveyed that all hostages are viewed as “humanitarian” cases, meaning no group would be prioritized over another due to their dire circumstances after 643 days in captivity. However, intelligence regarding the hostages' conditions is reportedly being relayed to Netanyahu's office, and political leaders will determine the order of release.

Memorial Service and Commitment to Fight Antisemitism

Earlier, Netanyahu attended a memorial service for embassy employees Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Milgrim at the Israeli mission in Washington. He expressed the profound pain of losing loved ones, stating, “The pain of losing a brother is immense; the pain of losing a son is even greater.” He also acknowledged Ambassador Yechiel Leiter, who lost his son in the Gaza conflict. Netanyahu shared that he discussed the victims with Trump, who remarked on their photographs, “What a beautiful couple.” During the ceremony, Netanyahu signed a memorial book, unveiled a plaque, and affixed a mezuzah, attended by the victims' families.

Netanyahu's Resolve

Netanyahu concluded by affirming the heavy cost of maintaining a Jewish state and vowed to combat rising antisemitism, which he described as part of an organized campaign. He stated, “When we began our return to our land, the first action Israel took was to establish an army. We do not bow down. We do not surrender. We will prevail.”