Netanyahu: Release of Hostages in Gaza Possible through Pressure on Qatar

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that the release of hostages in the Gaza Strip could be achieved through "strong military action" and "very tough negotiations." In a conference for major American Jewish organizations in Jerusalem, Netanyahu stated, "This difficult situation must include exerting pressure not only on Hamas itself but also on those who can exert pressure on Hamas, starting with Qatar." He added, "Qatar can pressure Hamas like no one else can. They host Hamas leaders, and Hamas relies on them financially. I urge you to pressure Qatar to pressure Hamas because we want to secure the release of our hostages." Netanyahu continued, "I hope that we can reach an agreement soon to secure the release of more of our hostages, but whether we reach an agreement or not, we must complete the mission to achieve total victory."