Hostage pointman says focus remains on captives even during escalation with Iran

Israel has not reduced its focus on bringing the hostages back from Gaza, even during the war against Iran, government hostage pointman Gal Hirsch tells hostages’ families.

“In these critical hours, our eyes remain fixed on the hostages,” he says in a missive. “We are fully aware of the ongoing nightmare the hostages are enduring — and you, their dear families, with them.”

The Hostages and Missing Families Forum accused the government earlier today of abandoning the effort to bring their loved ones home, claiming in a statement that the issue has “disappeared” from the government’s agenda.

“Talks with the mediators and with the Americans are ongoing, but we are cautious in describing the situation,” says Hirsch, adding that the fight against Iran could cause some progress.

“As occurred previously during the prisoner exchange deal in January 2025, the current developments may have an impact once again. The potential certainly exists, and we are acting accordingly,” he writes.

“The prime minister, cabinet ministers and the heads of the security establishment see the return of the hostages as a central mission. We will not give up on anyone,” he pledges.

“Alongside the campaign against Iran, the effort to bring back the hostages continues — at all times and through all means,” he writes, stressing that all efforts continue: “Negotiations, intelligence, operations, foreign relations, influence efforts, public and covert diplomacy, family support and inter-ministerial and inter-organizational coordination.”