Israeli-Gaza Conflict: Netanyahu Hints at Possible Deal for Hostage ReleaseIsraeli-Gaza Conflict: Netanyahu Hints at Possible Deal for Hostage Release Amidst ongoing clashes in the Gaza Strip, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has expressed optimism regarding a potential deal to secure the release of hostages held in the besieged enclave. Netanyahu’s office stated on Tuesday that he informed hostage families of the possibility of an impending agreement. This revelation emerged as Israeli forces conducted a new raid in Khan Younis, Southern Gaza, ordering civilians to evacuate areas used for attacks by Palestinian militants. UN officials reported that thousands of residents were seeking refuge from Israeli airstrikes. Netanyahu is currently in Washington, where he is scheduled to address Congress and meet with U.S. President Joe Biden later this week. Speaking to hostages’ families in the U.S. capital on Monday, Netanyahu commented, “The conditions (for a deal) are undoubtedly ripening. This is a good sign.” He added, “Unfortunately, it will not take place all at once; there will be stages. However, I believe that we can advance the deal and leave us in possession of the leverage to bring about the release of the others (hostages not freed in first stage).”
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told families of hostages held in Gaza that a deal that would secure their release could be near, his office said on Tuesday, as fighting raged in the battered Palestinian enclave.
Israeli forces pressed on with a new raid into Gaza’s southern area of Khan Younis after ordering civilians to evacuate some districts they said had been used for renewed attacks by Palestinian militants.
Thousands of people were fleeing for safer areas as Israeli airstrikes hit, UN officials said.
Netanyahu is currently in Washington and is expected to meet US President Joe Biden later this week after making an address to Congress.
Speaking in the US capital on Monday to families of hostages, he said: “The conditions (for a deal) are undoubtedly ripening. This is a good sign.”
“Unfortunately, it will not take place all at once; there will be stages. However, I believe that we can advance the deal and leave us in possession of the leverage to bring about the release of the others (hostages not freed in first stage ),” Netanyahu said.
Reuters
