Israel’s Next Move as Hostage Deal Hangs by a Thread
Israel is preparing for a potential Gaza City offensive while exploring new hostage deal talks with Hamas, with possible negotiations in the UAE or a European capital, as Netanyahu insists on a comprehensive agreement for all hostages and war’s end. Tensions rise as military pressure aims to force Hamas’s flexibility, amid urgent calls from families and officials to seize an existing deal.
Israel is navigating a critical juncture in its conflict with Hamas, balancing intensified military plans with renewed efforts to negotiate a comprehensive hostage release deal. Following the approval of operational plans to seize Gaza City, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is considering dispatching a delegation for talks, though the timing, location, and team composition remain undecided.
Potential venues include a European capital or the United Arab Emirates, where Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer recently discussed the issue. The UAE, increasingly involved in Gaza’s humanitarian aid, is a notable contender, while Qatar and Egypt are less favored due to strategic shifts. Netanyahu may retain the current Doha negotiation team or adjust its makeup, potentially reincluding Mossad chief David Barnea, who recently met Qatar’s prime minister.
Israeli officials are firm: any agreement with Hamas must encompass the release of all 50 remaining hostages, 20 of whom are believed to be alive, and lead to the war’s end on Israel’s terms. “The mediators’ proposal is no longer relevant,” a senior official stated. “We’ve moved beyond it and conveyed this decisively. The next agreement will cover all hostages and war termination under conditions Israel can accept.” They emphasize that ongoing military maneuvers, including plans to capture Gaza City, will not be tied to the talks but will instead pressure Hamas to yield. Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir reinforced this, stating, “We’ve struck Hamas hard, removed threats from the border, and created conditions for hostage release through military pressure.” He noted the navy’s readiness to support ground operations, signaling an escalation focus on Gaza City.
The Hostages Families Forum echoed Zamir’s call for action, citing his reported statement: “There’s a deal on the table; we must take it.” They urged, “The Chief of Staff speaks for most of the nation, a comprehensive deal to return all 50 hostages and end the war. Netanyahu, it’s time to heed the people’s will. You have no mandate for endless war or sacrificing hostages, soldiers, and citizens.” They announced a solidarity day on Tuesday, rallying support for hostages, soldiers, and displaced residents.
Netanyahu’s push for a total deal contrasts with Hamas’s acceptance of a partial agreement, creating friction. A senior Hamas official criticized Israel’s “procrastination and evasion,” claiming readiness for a ceasefire but awaiting Israel’s formal response. Tuesday’s security cabinet meeting will finalize Israel’s stance and military plans, with no confirmed progress in talks since Netanyahu’s call for immediate negotiations last Thursday.