Hostages families: Netanyahu prefers an eternal political war over the return of hostages taken on his watch

A group of hostages’ families holds a weekly press conference in Tel Aviv, blasting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for continuing the war, and expressing concern over his appointment of a Shin Bet chief who has reportedly expressed opposition to a hostage deal.

Einav Zangauker, whose son Matan is held hostage in Gaza, says of Netanyahu: “An eternal political war is preferable over the return of civilians kidnapped on his watch.

“He prefers to flatten Gaza indefinitely, even at the price of 58 Ron Arads,” she says, referring to an Israeli pilot, presumed dead, who went missing in action in 1986.

Zangauker also expresses concern over Netanyahu’s appointment of Maj. Gen. David Zini as Shin Bet chief, amid reported comments that he opposed a deal to return hostages.

Yehuda Cohen, whose son Nimrod is held in Gaza, accuses Netanyahu of evading responsibility. “How is it that after 600 days, he proposes a selective deal? This is a death sentence for whoever is left behind. I call upon President Trump — only you can stop this disaster and return everyone home.”

Gil Dickman, whose cousin was murdered in captivity, says that military pressure “killed hostages,” and urged Netanyahu, “Don’t appoint a Shin bet chief who will turn the service into a hostage-burying service. End the war — and bring everyone back now.”