There are 20 confirmed living hostages in Gaza, and “up to 38” slain hostages, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says at a press conference in Jerusalem, the first in five months.
“We will bring everyone back,” he promises in his first press conference since December.
Israel has a “very organized” plan to achieve its war aims in Gaza, he insists, adding that the war in Gaza has “a purpose that is clear and justified.”
“To defeat Hamas, which carried out the atrocities of October 7; to bring back all of our hostages; and to ensure that Gaza does not present a threat to Israel.”
The goals are complementary, he argues, “and we have to achieve them fully.”
Israel has “apparently” killed Hamas military leader Muhammad Sinwar, says Netanyahu.
He says that if there is a possibility for a “temporary ceasefire” that will return more hostages, we are ready for that, but repeats that this would only be temporary.
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Wednesday, May 21, 2025
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