Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hinted today, Saturday, that new negotiations are underway to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas. This comes after the head of the Israeli Intelligence Agency (Mossad) met with the Qatari Prime Minister, the country mediating between the two sides.
In a press conference broadcasted on television, following the accidental killing by Israeli forces of three out of more than 100 hostages held by Hamas, Netanyahu described the conflict in Gaza as an existential war that must be fought to victory despite the pressures and costs. He stated that the region would be demilitarized and under Israeli security control.
He added that the Israeli assault on Gaza had helped achieve a partial agreement for the release of hostages in November. He said, "The instructions I give to the negotiation team are based on this pressure, without which we have nothing."
Netanyahu's remarks came after a knowledgeable source reported that Mossad chief David Barnea met with Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani in Europe late Friday evening, as attention turned to a potential new ceasefire in Gaza and an agreement for a prisoner exchange.
During the press conference, Netanyahu avoided answering a question about the meeting, stating that he would not disclose information to Hamas. He added that Israel received requests for a ceasefire and troop withdrawal during discussions about Gaza but would not comply.
Israel bombed targets across Gaza today, Saturday, but two Egyptian security sources stated that Israeli officials now appear more open to reaching a new ceasefire agreement and releasing Palestinian prisoners in exchange for the hostages held by Hamas.
While Netanyahu was speaking, several hundred people organized a protest in Tel Aviv, with some holding signs that read "Bring them out of hell." One speaker shouted, "Bring them home now!"
