Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed optimism about announcing the release of all hostages from Gaza “in the coming days,” as indirect negotiations with Hamas are set to take place in Egypt. Addressing the media on Saturday, Netanyahu stated that a delegation has been dispatched to Egypt to finalize technical details, aiming to confine discussions to a few days. However, he ruled out a complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, emphasizing that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) would maintain control over certain territories and that Hamas would be disarmed during subsequent phases of the proposed U.S. peace plan.
Netanyahu’s comments came after Hamas indicated its acceptance of certain aspects of the U.S. proposal. U.S. President Donald Trump acknowledged this development but warned Hamas to act swiftly, stating, “Hamas must move quickly, or else all bets will be off.” Trump further asserted that a ceasefire would commence immediately once Hamas affirms the “initial withdrawal line” in Gaza, while a social media map suggested significant areas would remain accessible to Israeli forces. Additionally, Trump has instructed Israel to halt strikes on Gaza, which some residents reported as a slight reduction in bombardments; however, at least 22 casualties were reported, including women and children.
As Israel prepares for the U.S. plan’s initial phase, military officials have indicated a shift to a defensive posture in Gaza. Despite this, airstrikes continued, with reports from Al-Ahli hospital detailing 17 fatalities from a strike in Gaza City’s Tuffah neighborhood. An Israeli military official confirmed that the operation targeted a Hamas member, expressing regret for any collateral damage.
With the second anniversary of the initial Hamas attack approaching on October 7, 2023, Trump seems determined to fulfill promises to end the conflict and secure the return of all hostages. Netanyahu’s office reiterated Israel’s commitment to concluding the war, while indirect talks on Monday aim to pave the way for the release of hostages from Gaza and Palestinian detainees held by Israel. Negotiations will be led by U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff, with discussions also encompassing maps indicating potential Israeli withdrawals in Gaza.
A senior Egyptian official noted that Arab mediators are preparing for a broader dialogue among Palestinians to unify their stance regarding Gaza’s future. Despite this progress, uncertainty remains, as Hamas has expressed a willingness to relinquish hostages and power but cited the need for further consultations on other facets of the plan.
Under the proposed arrangement, Hamas is expected to release 48 remaining hostages-approximately 20 believed to be alive-within three days, while also disarming in return for Israel halting its military offensive, withdrawing from large portions of Gaza, and releasing hundreds of Palestinian prisoners. Analysts suggest Hamas’ responses may repurpose longstanding demands with less aggressive language.
Domestic reactions are mixed, with some members of Netanyahu’s right-wing coalition critiquing the plan but refraining from immediate governmental withdrawal. Meanwhile, families of hostages expressed renewed hope, urging Trump to exert pressure for the plan’s success. Protests advocating for an end to the war have intensified across Europe, highlighting a growing call for resolution.
Amidst these ongoing tensions, sentiments in Gaza reflect deep weariness. Residents like Sameer Qudeeh and Mohammad Shaat voiced frustration over the prospect of yet another failed negotiation, underscoring a desperate need for practical solutions. As the Israeli army cautioned against returning to Gaza City, residents remained apprehensive about the safety and prospects for peace, with the Health Ministry reporting a staggering Palestinian death toll exceeding 67,000 since the conflict’s escalation.
Original Source: https://www.cnbc.com/2025/10/04/netanyahu-israel-hamas-hostages-gaza.html
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Publish Date: 2025-10-05 02:51:00
