Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has instructed negotiators to persist in efforts to secure the release of hostages held in Gaza. This directive follows an assessment meeting with the negotiating team and heads of the security establishment. The Prime Minister emphasized the importance of continuing these steps to advance the release of hostages.
As of the latest reports, 59 hostages remain in Gaza, with Israeli officials estimating that less than half are believed to be alive. In response to the stalled ceasefire and ongoing hostilities, Netanyahu has reaffirmed Israel’s commitment to military pressure as a means to compel Hamas to release the captives.
The situation has drawn international concern, with the United Nations reporting over 51,000 Palestinian casualties since the conflict’s escalation in October 2023. Efforts by Egypt and Qatar to mediate a new deal, including the release of approximately 10 hostages and a temporary truce, are currently under consideration by Hamas.
Netanyahu’s office has not provided further details on the specific measures being taken to facilitate the hostages’ release.
