Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s recent comments and a delay in his court case have made people think that there might be progress in ending the Gaza war and freeing the hostages.
The court agreed to postpone Netanyahu’s testimony in his corruption trial because of secret diplomatic and security reasons. Former U.S. President Donald Trump also said on Saturday that the trial could make it harder for Netanyahu to focus on peace talks.
Israel’s army chief, General Eyal Zamir, said on Friday that the recent end of the war with Iran (on June 24) might help Israel in its fight against Hamas in Gaza.
Israeli media reported that the country’s security leaders met on Sunday and planned to meet again on Monday. Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer, who is close to Netanyahu, was going to the White House to talk about Iran and Gaza.
On Sunday, while visiting Israel’s Shin Bet intelligence agency, Netanyahu said, “After this victory, we now have many chances. First, to bring back the hostages. And second, to deal with Gaza and defeat Hamas. I believe we will do both.”
A group supporting the 50 hostages still held in Gaza, called the Hostages and Missing Families Forum, said this was the first time Netanyahu clearly said the hostages are his top priority. “After 20 months, we welcome that the hostages are finally the prime minister’s main concern,” they said.
Hope for Ending the Gaza War and Releasing Hostages
They also added that this must lead to one big deal that brings all hostages home and ends the fighting in Gaza. Out of the 50 hostages, only about 20 are believed to be alive.
Trump also said Netanyahu is currently working on a deal with Hamas, but neither side gave details. Some officials doubt a ceasefire will happen soon.
The U.S. has suggested a 60-day ceasefire. Under this plan, Hamas would release half of the hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners and the remains of dead Palestinians. The rest of the hostages would be released once a permanent ceasefire is agreed.
Meanwhile, Israel’s army told people in northern Gaza to evacuate because of more fighting.
A Hamas official told Reuters that the group is ready to talk again, but still demands that the war must end and Israeli forces must leave Gaza.
Israel says it won’t end the war until Hamas gives up its weapons and is dismantled. Hamas refuses to do that.
According to Israel, Hamas fighters killed 1,200 people and took 251 hostages in their October attack. In response, Israel’s military campaign has killed over 56,000 Palestinians, displaced almost all 2.3 million people in Gaza, and created a severe humanitarian crisis.
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