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Netanyahu tells hostage families in DC: ‘Strong pressure’ on Hamas will lead to captives’ release

Conditions for a ceasefire deal are "maturing" as Hamas begins to crack, said the Israeli PM

July 23, 2024 10:43
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ByJC Reporter, Jewish News Syndicate

3 min read

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met on Monday in Washington with the families of hostages held by Hamas in Gaza, telling them that military pressure on the terrorist group was creating the conditions for their return.

The meeting, which included Netanyahu's wife Sara, took place on the day that the couple arrived in Washington, where the premier will address a joint session of Congress on Wednesday.

"We are determined to return everyone. The conditions to bring them back are ripe, for the simple reason that we are putting very strong pressure on Hamas. We are seeing a certain change, and I think this change will continue to grow. We intend to do it—this is a war objective," said Netanyahu according to his office.

Twenty-three relatives of hostages, including 12 of U.S. citizens being held in Gaza, were at the meeting. Freed hostage Noa Argamani and her father Yaakov were also present, as were two soldiers who fought in Gaza in the current war against Hamas. Relatives who lost loved ones fighting in Gaza were also there.