Netanyahu sets 'Red Line' for hostage deal
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has outlined a set of essential demands ahead of renewed hostage negotiations in Cairo and Doha this week, insisting that certain conditions must be met for Israel to agree to a potential hostage release and ceasefire deal with Hamas.
Netanyahu's declaration of Israel's non-negotiable terms, including the ability to resume military operations if necessary, has stirred controversy both domestically and among mediators, with accusations that his statements may undermine progress already made.
The upcoming talks follow Hamas's recent announcement that it is willing to engage in discussions regarding a hostage exchange and cessation of hostilities in Gaza, signalling a shift from its previous stance demanding a complete and permanent ceasefire since November.
Netanyahu's non-negotiables are as follows:
Netanyahu's stance underscores the delicate nature of negotiations aimed at securing a temporary pause in hostilities in Gaza, although the outcome remains uncertain despite international efforts and proposed agreements backed by the United States.