BTN News: Israeli President Isaac Herzog is asking his government to make a deal with Hamas. This deal would help free 116 hostages who have been in Gaza for nine months. This request comes during a long conflict that started last October. The whole country wants the hostages to come back.
In a message on social media platform X, Herzog shared the nation’s wish. “Everyone wants their return, and most people support a deal for their release. The state must bring them back, and this is agreed upon by many,” Herzog said.
He talked about the nation’s promise to the hostages. “We are fully committed to bringing back the kidnapped. The people of Israel never forget them. In every home and family, every synagogue, community, and event, we hear the worry, the prayer, and the call for their quick return,” Herzog added.
Conflict Reaches Nine Months with Possible New Ceasefire Agreement
The conflict is now nine months old. Israel is thinking about a new ceasefire deal with Hamas. This deal would help free the hostages. The agreement will be discussed in Egypt soon. The United States and Qatar are helping to mediate.
Some ministers are against making a deal with Hamas. Ministers Itamar Ben Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich are part of this group. They have said they will leave the coalition if Israel makes a deal with Hamas.
Israeli Public Demands Hostage Release Amid Increasing Desperation
People in Israel are very eager to get their loved ones back. This led to protests all over the country on Sunday. Large groups gathered in big cities like Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. The goal is to get one million people to demand a deal for the hostages’ release. They also want to dissolve the Knesset and call for early elections.
The conflict started on October 7, 2023, when Hamas attacked Israel. The attack included thousands of rockets and many infiltrations. This resulted in the deaths of about 1,200 Israelis. Hamas also kidnapped 251 people from areas near Gaza. Of these, 116 are still held captive. Israel says 42 of the hostages are dead. Hamas says more than 70 hostages have died.
Prime Minister Netanyahu’s Firm Stance on War and Hostage Recovery
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is firm in his stance. He will not stop the war until all goals are met. These goals include destroying Hamas and getting all hostages back. Hamas, on the other hand, wants a permanent end to the fighting in any deal.
This war is the longest since Israel was founded in 1948. So far, there has only been one temporary ceasefire. This happened at the end of November. It lasted one week and led to the release of 105 hostages. In return, 240 Palestinian prisoners were freed.
Urgent Need for a Peaceful and Strategic Resolution
Israel is facing many challenges. President Herzog’s plea has united the nation in hope. A new ceasefire deal could bring hope, but there are many obstacles. International mediators are stepping in to help. The world is watching, hoping for a peaceful solution. Everyone wants the hostages to come home safely.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Israel’s government is at a crucial point. President Herzog’s strong message has united the people. They all want the hostages to come back. A possible ceasefire deal offers hope, but internal politics and ongoing conflict make things hard. With help from international mediators, there is a chance for peace. The world is watching, hoping for a solution that brings peace and reunites families separated by this long conflict.
