Netanyahu Clarifies Position: No Unacceptable Concessions for Hostage Release

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed today, Sunday, that Israel is not prepared to accept any agreement at any cost for the release of hostages held by the Palestinian Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas) in Gaza. He added in statements before a cabinet meeting released to the media, "Efforts to free the hostages are ongoing at all times." He also stated, "As I confirmed in the security cabinet, we will not agree to any (form) of an agreement, and not at any cost." During the cabinet meeting today, Netanyahu said, "I do not need any assistance in managing our relations with the United States and the international community while I firmly defend our national interests."