Jerusalem: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office has thanked Trump after the hostage release, acknowledging his support following the return of three captives from Gaza.
Israel Welcomes Hostage Return
In a statement issued in Hebrew, Netanyahu’s office welcomed the safe return of the hostages and emphasized the ongoing efforts to secure the release of those still held by Hamas. The Israeli government continues to work closely with the United States to facilitate their return.
Accusations Against Hamas
The statement accused Hamas of attempting to disrupt the hostage release process. It claimed that the group tried to “violate the agreement” by creating a “fake crisis with false claims.” However, Israel insists that its military operations in and around Gaza, along with U.S. diplomatic support, have kept the releases on track.
Trump’s Role in the Hostage Release
Netanyahu’s office credited Trump’s “clear and unequivocal statement” as a key factor in ensuring that the hostage release continued as planned. While the statement did not specify which remarks from Trump influenced the situation, it underscored the strong alliance between Israel and the U.S. in securing the hostages’ freedom.
Ongoing Efforts to Secure More Releases
The statement concluded by reaffirming Israel’s commitment to working with the U.S. to bring home all hostages as quickly as possible. With negotiations and military pressure ongoing, Israel remains focused on securing the release of those still in captivity.
As tensions persist in the region, the collaboration between Israel and its allies remains crucial in addressing the humanitarian and security challenges posed by the conflict.