In a statement on Sunday, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel expressed that the recent 12-day conflict with Iran has created new opportunities for the nation. One such opportunity was the return of hostages held by Palestinian militants in Gaza since the attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. Netanyahu’s comments, along with the postponement of his testimony in his ongoing corruption trial by the Jerusalem District Court, led to speculations about progress towards resolving the Gaza conflict and securing the release of the hostages. The court approved Netanyahu’s request for the delay, citing classified diplomatic and security reasons. U.S. President Donald Trump had suggested that the trial might hinder Netanyahu’s negotiating abilities.
Israel’s Chief of Staff, Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir, stated last Friday that the recent conflict with Iran could potentially aid Israeli objectives against the Iranian-backed Hamas in Gaza. Israeli media reported that the security cabinet had convened on Sunday night and would meet again on Monday. Israeli Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer, a close ally of Netanyahu, was expected in Washington D.C. on Monday for discussions on Iran and Gaza.
During a visit to a security facility of Israel’s Shin Bet domestic intelligence service on Sunday, Netanyahu emphasized the new opportunities following the recent conflict. He highlighted the need to rescue the hostages and address the Gaza situation to defeat Hamas. Advocates for the remaining 50 hostages in Gaza, known as the Hostages and Missing Families Forum Headquarters, welcomed Netanyahu’s prioritization of the hostages, urging for a comprehensive resolution to bring back all hostages and end the fighting in Gaza.
President Trump mentioned on Saturday that Netanyahu was engaged in negotiations with Hamas, without providing specifics. The U.S. has proposed a 60-day ceasefire and the release of half the hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners and remains of other Palestinians. Hamas indicated readiness to resume ceasefire talks but maintained demands for a deal that secures an Israeli withdrawal from Gaza.
Israel has called for Hamas to disarm and dismantle to end the conflict, while Hamas insists on retaining its arms. The conflict has resulted in significant casualties and displacement on both sides. As tensions persist, efforts continue towards reaching a lasting ceasefire and resolution in the region.
The situation escalated into a humanitarian crisis, with additional reporting by Nidal al-Mughrabi and editing by Chris Reese.
