Netanyahu Reports ‘Some Progress’ in Ceasefire, Hostage Deal

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has indicated there is some advancement in the negotiations for a hostage and ceasefire deal in Gaza, though he did not specify a timeline for a potential agreement.

Around 100 of the approximately 250 individuals taken hostage during the Hamas-led raid on Israel on October 7, 2023, remain in Gaza. It is believed that at least a third of these hostages are deceased.

Addressing the Knesset on Monday, Netanyahu stated that significant measures are being taken across various channels to secure the return of the hostages. He cautiously noted that there is some progress in these efforts.

Netanyahu did not disclose specific actions being undertaken to facilitate the hostages’ release. He attributed the progress to the death of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar and Israel’s military operations against Iran-backed Hezbollah militants, who have been launching rockets into Israel from Lebanon in support of Hamas.

Netanyahu highlighted that Hamas had expected support from Iran and Hezbollah, but these groups are currently focused on recovering from the setbacks inflicted by Israel. He also mentioned the continuous military pressure being applied on Hamas in Gaza.

Netanyahu concluded by emphasizing that while there is progress, the duration of the efforts remains uncertain.