The families of the hostages met today (Sunday) with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and issued a statement to the media following the meeting, expressing reasons for optimism. “The Prime Minister stated that the time is ripe for a deal to release the hostages.” Additionally, the families’ headquarters reported that Netanyahu understands the hostages will only be returned via a deal and is therefore willing to agree to a ceasefire to facilitate their return. The Prime Minister’s Office stated that meetings were held with the “Families’ Headquarters Assembly” and the “Hope Forum.” The Prime Minister emphasized that the fall of Assad’s regime, partly due to Israel’s determined actions against Hezbollah and Hamas, could aid in advancing a deal for the hostages’ return.
Families Present at the Meeting
The meeting included: Malchi Shem Tov, father of Omer Shem Tov; Sharon Sharabi, sibling of Yossi (of blessed memory) and Eli Sharabi; Shir Siegel, daughter of Keith Siegel; Lishi Lavi Miran, wife of Omri Miran; Udi Goren, cousin of Tal Chaimi (of blessed memory); and Gil Dikman, cousin of Carmel Gat (of blessed memory).
PM: There Are Several Possible Frameworks for a Deal
The Hostage Families’ Headquarters stated: “The Prime Minister mentioned several possible frameworks. It was not clarified during the meeting which framework is currently being pursued.” They also noted Netanyahu’s promise to include the return of remains as part of the various stages of the agreement. “In summary, we understand from the Prime Minister that he perceives significant progress in the ability to reach a deal,” the headquarters remarked.
Forum of Valor: No to Reckless Deals, Yes to Responsible Agreements
Bereaved families from the “Forum of Valor” appealed to the Prime Minister, requesting a meeting in light of recent developments regarding a potential hostage deal. In a letter sent to Netanyahu, they expressed their support for a deal but emphasized that it must include the release of all hostages and enable the continued neutralization of Hamas. They stated: “The Israeli government must seize the opportunity before it to achieve significant results in the negotiations, ensuring it holds the upper hand and avoids reckless deals that would leave some hostages in captivity and allow Hamas to continue exploiting Israel.”
It should be noted that following Hamas’ release of a video of captive Matan Tsengaoker, the Prime Minister spoke yesterday by phone with his mother, Einav Tsengaoker. About a week ago, he also spoke with the family of captive Idan Alexander, who recently received proof of life from captivity.
