Prime Minister Netanyahu Orders Immediate Hostage Deal Negotiations Amid Gaza Offensive Plans

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced Thursday evening that he has ordered the start of immediate negotiations for the release of all Israeli hostages and an end to the war in Gaza — on terms acceptable to Israel. The declaration comes three days after Hamas agreed in principle to the outline proposed by international mediators for a partial deal.

A political source confirmed that Netanyahu has instructed the formation of an Israeli delegation to participate in the talks, with the location of negotiations yet to be finalized.

Netanyahu announced during a high-level meeting at the Gaza Division, attended by top military officials and members of the security cabinet, convened to approve operational plans for the military takeover of Gaza City. Netanyahu stated that the goals of defeating Hamas and securing the release of hostages are interconnected, telling soldiers, “These two things go hand in hand.”

Netanyahu Signals Endgame but Maintains Ambiguity

Earlier Thursday, Netanyahu told Australia’s Sky News that Israel is “on the verge of ending the war.” He said the planned military action in Gaza City is essential to “liberate Gaza from Hamas tyranny” and to provide “a different future for Gaza and Israel.”

The prime minister maintained a hardline stance, saying the operation will proceed “even if Hamas agrees to a ceasefire at the last minute.” Citing former U.S. President Donald Trump, Netanyahu said, “Hamas must disappear from Gaza — it’s like leaving the SS in Germany.”

Despite this, Netanyahu remains noncommittal about the specific outline Hamas accepted. Although he has repeatedly insisted on a comprehensive agreement, he has yet to formally endorse the current proposal.

A political source clarified that military operations will not block negotiations, stating, “Israel will negotiate a deal under fire.” The official added that the Gaza City offensive could be paused if negotiations progress.

Families of Hostages React with Frustration 

The announcement was met with criticism from the families of those held hostage by Hamas, who accused Netanyahu of delaying action and playing politics at the expense of their loved ones.

Einav Tsengauker, whose son has been held in Gaza for 685 days, responded with anger:

“Don’t instruct — sign. Sign a comprehensive agreement for all 50 kidnapped men and women. Give up the obstacles you've created. Stop acting as a judge for Smotrich and Ben Gvir. Do the right thing for once.”

Yotam Cohen, brother of kidnapped soldier Nimrod Cohen, condemned Netanyahu and the government for inaction:

“You are measured by your actions. Every kidnapped person murdered, every soldier killed — it is on you. My brother has been tortured and starved for 685 days, and I’ll keep counting the abandonment until the moment I hug him again.”

While Netanyahu’s announcement signals a potential shift in Israel’s strategy, it remains unclear whether the prime minister truly intends to pursue the deal in full — or whether the announcement serves as a tactical move to pressure Hamas amid military escalation.

The coming days may determine whether negotiations yield progress or whether continued ambiguity from the Israeli leadership prolongs the war and the hostages' suffering.