Will Netanyahu’s talks with Trump envoy lead to more hostage releases?
Despite ongoing combat in Gaza, Israeli leaders are reviving a U.S.-backed plan and restarting negotiations in Doha with no ceasefire in sight.
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Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held a series of high-stakes meetings Monday, as diplomatic efforts to secure the release of hostages resumed amid continued military operations in Gaza.
Netanyahu met in Jerusalem with U.S. President Donald Trump’s special envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, and with U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee. The meeting focused on reviving the framework for a hostage release plan that Witkoff had proposed before the latest escalation in fighting.
Following the meeting, the Prime Minister held a phone call with President Trump. Netanyahu expressed gratitude for Trump’s involvement in securing the release of IDF soldier Edan Alexander, who is due to be released by Hamas later today. In response, Trump reaffirmed his steadfast support for Israel and his intention to deepen cooperation with the Netanyahu government.
According to the Prime Minister’s Office, Netanyahu has instructed Israeli officials to dispatch a negotiation delegation to Doha on Tuesday to advance the American proposal. However, he emphasized that talks will take place under fire, with no pause in military pressure on Hamas.
“The only reason this is possible is because of our firm policy, backed by American support,” Netanyahu said.