JERUSALEM – Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu informed Parliament on Dec 23 of “some progress” in talks to secure the release of hostages held in Gaza. His remarks follow recent statements from Palestinian militant groups hinting at advances toward a potential ceasefire and prisoner exchange.
Indirect negotiations, mediated by Qatar, Egypt, and the U.S., have resumed in Doha, raising cautious hope for an agreement. “We are taking actions to bring them back. I wish to say cautiously that there has been some progress,” Netanyahu stated, addressing the families of hostages, emphasizing that the government remains committed to their return.
Critics, however, accuse the prime minister of delaying truce talks to appease far-right coalition partners, with hostage families questioning the sincerity of his negotiation efforts.
Stumbling Blocks in Ceasefire Talks
Efforts to establish a ceasefire have faced significant hurdles since a brief truce in November 2023. Central sticking points include the terms for a lasting peace and post-war governance in Gaza.
Hamas’ armed wing warned that Israeli military advances could jeopardize hostage safety. Spokesman Abu Obeida stated, “If the occupation army advances even a few hundred metres more in some areas where they are already on the ground, it will decide the fate of some of the enemy’s hostages.”
Meanwhile, Netanyahu reiterated Israel’s goal of permanently removing Hamas from power in Gaza, telling The Wall Street Journal: “I’m not going to agree to end the war before we remove Hamas.”
Expanding Regional Challenges
The conflict has widened, with Houthi rebels in Yemen escalating attacks against Israel, including missile strikes that injured civilians in Tel Aviv. Netanyahu responded with airstrikes on Houthi infrastructure, warning that any group threatening Israel would face “full force” retaliation.
Netanyahu also expressed intentions to forge new peace accords with Arab nations, akin to the 2020 Abraham Accords, citing Israel’s growing recognition as a regional power. “Together with our American friends, I plan to expand the Abraham Accords… and thus change even more dramatically the face of the Middle East,” he said.
As negotiations continue, both sides remain entrenched in their demands, leaving the path to peace and a resolution for hostages uncertain.