Jerusalem: Families of Israeli hostages still being held by Hamas have accused Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of being the primary obstacle to their return and to reaching a peace deal. The Hostages and Missing Families Forum publicly criticized Netanyahu, stating that recent Israeli military actions demonstrate his interference with potential agreements.
According to BBC, the forum highlighted a recent incident where Israel targeted senior Hamas leaders during a meeting in Doha, Qatar. The attack resulted in the deaths of five Hamas members and a Qatari security official. Families of the hostages argue that such actions are excuses for Netanyahu’s failure to secure the return of their loved ones.
In a statement, the families expressed frustration, saying, "The targeted operation in Qatar proved beyond any doubt that there is one obstacle to returning the 48 hostages and ending the war: Prime Minister Netanyahu." They called for an end to what they perceive as stalling tactics aimed at prolonging Netanyahu's tenure.
The group also claimed that Netanyahu's actions have already resulted in the loss of 42 hostages' lives and continue to endanger others. Meanwhile, US Senator Marco Rubio noted that US President Donald Trump was displeased with the strike on Qatar but affirmed the strength of US-Israel relations.
Rubio emphasized that Trump's priority remains the safe return of all hostages and the conclusion of the conflict in Gaza. He acknowledged Qatar's role as a critical US ally, notwithstanding complications from the recent strike.
Following the attack, Qatar condemned Israel's actions as "cowardly" and a breach of international law. However, Netanyahu defended the move, citing its necessity in targeting Hamas leaders responsible for attacks on 7 October 2023.
Amidst these developments, Israeli forces have intensified their attacks on Gaza City, leading to widespread destruction. Despite warnings to evacuate, residents report targeting of civilian infrastructure with minimal notice. The Israel Defense Forces reported mass evacuations from the city.
Netanyahu's plan to control Gaza City has faced international criticism, including from the UN, which voiced concerns over escalating humanitarian crises in the region. The Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza reported significant casualties and highlighted the dire conditions, exacerbated by malnutrition and starvation, as confirmed by global food security experts.
The ongoing military campaign in Gaza was initiated in response to a Hamas-led attack on Israel, which resulted in significant casualties and hostages. The conflict has since claimed thousands of lives, according to reports from Gaza's health authorities.