Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to “open the gates of hell” if all hostages in Gaza are not released unconditionally. In a joint statement with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Netanyahu pledged to eliminate Hamas’ military capability and political rule in Gaza, and bring all hostages home.
Netanyahu welcomed President Trump’s “bold vision for Gaza’s future,” which includes transferring the Palestinian population out of the Gaza Strip and redeveloping it under US ownership. The plan has been met with criticism from Arab leaders.
Rubio said the US and Israel are working diligently to secure the release of the remaining hostages, but acknowledged that details of their strategy cannot be shared publicly due to security concerns. He also emphasized the need for Hamas to be eradicated as a military or government force to ensure peace in the region.
The situation in Gaza remains tense, with the ceasefire set to end soon and the second phase of negotiations on releasing dozens of hostages pending. The US and Israel are also working together to counter Iran’s threat in the region, with Netanyahu stating that he has “no doubt” they can finish the job with Trump’s support.
Source: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/netanyahu-gaza-israel-hostages-rubio-hamas-trump