Netanyahu threatens consequences: hostages appear neglected!

Netanyahu threatens consequences: hostages appear neglected!

The tense situation between Israel and Hamas is reaching a new peak. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has pared ceasefire negotiations to the bare essentials, focusing on “technical details” and leaving out high-profile negotiators. This strategy comes how vienna.at reports as the second phase of the ceasefire, urgently needed for the return of more hostages, is being prepared. Meanwhile, Netanyahu is being sharply criticized by the Israeli public for putting political considerations ahead of the urgent needs of the hostage members. “We will eliminate Hamas and bring our hostages home,” Netanyahu promised in a video message.

Last Saturday there was another exchange of hostages: three Israelis were exchanged for 183 Palestinian prisoners. The scarred faces of Ohad Ben Ami, Or Levy and Eli Sharabi, who were released from captivity very emaciated and weakened, speak volumes about the drama that unfolded there. Their condition has sparked outrage, particularly among families who are speechless at the media images. President Isaac Herzog described the circumstances as “crimes against humanity.” The hostages' families are pressuring the government to take immediate action to free the remaining 76 hostages still in custody, reports Deutschlandfunk.

Military conflicts and withdrawal

During the negotiations and hostage transfers, Israel also reacts militarily. The Israeli Air Force has reportedly struck targets in Lebanon and Syria, including a Hezbollah base, resulting in several deaths. There were also attacks on Hamas weapons depots in Syria. Israel has stepped up its offensive against suspected Hamas weapons depots and supply routes since mid-December. According to military information, the withdrawal of Israeli troops from the Netzarim corridor, which is considered strategically important, is intended to support the Palestinians' right to return to their homeland.