Benjamin Netanyahu pushes for hostage release through decisive military victory

Tel Aviv: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is pushing for the release of hostages through a “decisive military victory” as an understanding forms that Hamas is not interested in a deal, a diplomatic source told The Times of Israel on Sunday.

The source’s comments came as relatives of the captives criticized reports of expanded military operations in Gaza and slammed Netanyahu’s video statement reacting to harrowing hostage footage, which suggested there was no ceasefire hostage deal in sight.

“In an understanding that Hamas is not interested in a deal” the source said “the prime minister is pushing for the release of hostages through decisive military victory, combined with the entry of humanitarian aid to areas outside the combat zone, and, as much as possible, outside of Hamas control.” The source, quoted by several Hebrew outlets, did not explain how the plan would be implemented.

According to The Times of Israel the source added “Israel is in contact with the Americans” noting U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff’s comments that Washington wants to end the Gaza war rather than expand it, and is no longer interested in partial hostage deals.

Channel 12 News reported that with the U.S. moving away from temporary ceasefire arrangements in exchange for some hostages Israel is expected to decide this week whether to intensify its Gaza offensive or allow more time for a potential deal even at the risk of harm to hostages.

The decision is reportedly dividing Israel’s security cabinet. While Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz remain undecided The Times of Israel said Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, Military Secretary Maj. Gen. Roman Gofman, and Cabinet Secretary Yossi Fuchs are in favor of expanding the fighting.

In contrast IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir, Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar, Shas leader Aryeh Deri, National Security Adviser Tzachi Hanegbi, Mossad chief David Barnea, the Shin Bet negotiator known as “Mem,” and Maj. Gen. (res.) Nitzan Alon, who is handling the hostage portfolio, reportedly oppose the move. (ANI)

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