Netanyahu Insists on Hamas’ Destruction as Concerns Grow Over Hostage Releases
Published on October 2023
Call for Hamas’ Elimination
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated on Friday that for Gaza to achieve peace, it must confront and eliminate Hamas. His remarks come amid rising anxieties among families of hostages held by the terrorist organization, particularly as statements from Washington spark fears of jeopardizing ongoing negotiations for their release.
“I was deeply moved by my meetings with President Trump and lawmakers, where we discussed ensuring Iran never obtains a nuclear weapon and the necessity of destroying Hamas,” Netanyahu stated. “There is no future for Gaza or peace in our region as long as Hamas remains in power.” His comments underscore a hardline stance that has characterized his administration’s approach towards the militant group.
Worries from Hostage Families
One individual particularly affected by this situation is Ruby Chen, father of American-Israeli soldier Itay Chen, who was captured by Hamas on October 7. Speaking to Fox News Digital, Chen expressed his concern over the focus of the Israeli leadership. “Netanyahu needs to stay focused on the priority: securing the release of all the hostages before addressing other issues,” he asserted. “He bears responsibility for October 7 and must ensure their safe return.”
This sentiment is echoed among the families of the hostages, who fear that Netanyahu’s emphasis on Hamas’ destruction could complicate or delay negotiations for their loved ones’ release.
International Reactions to U.S. Stance
Netanyahu’s remarks coincide with controversial comments made earlier that week by President Trump, which suggested potential U.S. intervention in Gaza and a mass displacement of Palestinians. These statements have drawn criticism from various nations and brought attention to the volatile situation.
As a result of this growing tension and decreased confidence among hostage families, Hamas has postponed the release of hostages initially scheduled for Saturday under the ceasefire agreement. This delay adds another layer to an already fraught hostage negotiation landscape.
Recent Hostage Releases
Despite the ongoing challenges, Hamas recently announced the release of three hostages: Eli Sharabi, 52; Or Levy, 34; and Ohad Ben Ami, 56. Sharabi was abducted from Kibbutz Be’eri, where his family was attacked. Levy was taken during the attack on the Supernova music festival, which resulted in the death of his wife. Ami was kidnapped alongside his wife, who was released earlier in a deal in November 2023.
As of now, only 13 of the 33 hostages expected to be released during the first phase of the ceasefire have been freed, leaving many families in limbo. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed the tragic fate of at least eight of these hostages, believed to have been killed while in captivity. The situation remains particularly dire for Shiri Bibas and her young sons, Ariel and Kfir, whose fates are still unconfirmed amidst conflicting reports. Hamas claims they were killed during an Israeli airstrike, yet no independent verification has been obtained.
Upcoming Negotiations and Potential Outcomes
Currently, nine hostages are believed to be alive and awaiting release. The second phase of negotiations, which aims to secure the release of an additional 65 hostages, has encountered delays, though discussions are anticipated to resume soon. Officials are reportedly set to travel to Qatar this weekend to continue these crucial negotiations.
A spokesperson for Netanyahu has criticized Hamas for the failure to promptly release the next set of hostages, labeling it a “serious violation” of ceasefire terms. Despite the ongoing challenges, it has been confirmed that Netanyahu will oversee the planned hostage release from Washington, D.C. this weekend.
Speculation on Netanyahu-Trump Discussions
This week, unconfirmed reports emerged that Netanyahu might have presented Trump with a plan to conclude the war in Gaza, proposing that Hamas leaders be exiled as a condition for peace. However, Netanyahu’s office has strongly denied these claims, emphasizing that any discussions regarding Hamas’s future remain speculative at best.
The interplay of strategic dialogue, international relations, and the haunting reality of the hostages’ conditions paints a complex picture. As these negotiations continue, the families of the hostages remain hopeful yet apprehensive, fearing that broader geopolitical maneuvers could take precedence over their loved ones’ safe return.
