Families of Israeli hostages urge Netanyahu to halt Gaza attacks

Families of Israeli hostages held in Gaza and released Israeli hostages have urged Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government to halt attacks on Gaza and return to the negotiating table for a cease-fire.

The call came after 40 Israeli hostages released under a cease-fire and hostage exchange agreement, along with 250 family members, signed a letter condemning the renewed attacks. The letter, reported by The Times of Israel, accuses Netanyahu of disregarding the lives of the hostages.

The letter stresses that Netanyahu’s decision to resume military action risks the lives of Israeli hostages in Gaza. The families and released hostages argue that ending the war and negotiating a deal to bring all hostages back should be Israel’s top priority.

Background

On March 18, Israel resumed heavy attacks on Gaza, breaking a cease-fire agreement that had been in place since Jan. 19. The cease-fire had led to the release of 40 Israeli hostages, but the renewed violence has reignited concerns over the safety of those still held in Gaza. The families and former hostages have condemned Israel’s military strategy, arguing that prioritizing war over negotiations endangers their loved ones.

Details

• The letter: The letter signed by the released hostages and families of those still held in Gaza calls Netanyahu’s decision to resume attacks “criminal.”

• Israeli military action: Israel broke the ceasefire on March 18, launching renewed attacks on Gaza.

• Government response: Netanyahu has not publicly commented on the letter but continues to push for a military solution to the ongoing conflict.