In addition to the reward, there is also a commitment of ensuring a safe journey out of Gaza for those who contribute to the release. Netanyahu disclosed this information while on a brief tour of Gaza, being guided through the Netzarim Corridor; a significant pathway linking northern and southern regions of Gaza that falls under Israeli military supervision. He mentioned that individuals who are willing to assist in releasing the Israeli hostages will not just be compensated financially but also provided with a safe passage out of Gaza for themselves and their loved ones. We are ready to provide $5 million for the release of each hostage. You have the choice, yet the outcome remains unchanged – we will ensure all our captives are brought back home,” Netanyahu expressed. Demonstrations have grown more intense as protesters call on Netanyahu to reach an agreement for the release of Israeli hostages held in Gaza. Previously, Netanyahu strongly emphasized that the sole method to ensure the liberation of Israeli hostages was by utilizing military force. He made a commitment that Israel’s military activities in Gaza would persist until all captives were rescued.Nevertheless, the announcement of the reward signifies a change in tactics, showcasing Israel’s challenge in successfully freeing hostages via military methods.Approximately 101 Israeli captives are believed to still be in Gaza, but tragically, many of the hostages lost their lives during Israeli military operations intended to rescue them.At the same time, it was reported that three Lebanese soldiers lost their lives due to actions by Israeli forces in southern Lebanon, while four Ghanaian peacekeepers sustained injuries from a rocket, presumably launched by non-state entities, as stated by the UN’s peacekeeping mission (UNIFIL).Since the beginning of the Gaza conflict on October 7, there have been reports of at least 43,972 Palestinian fatalities and 104,008 injuries as a result of Israeli airstrikes. In Israel, tragically 1,139 individuals lost their lives, with over 200 others being taken captive due to the attacks carried out by Hamas.In Lebanon, more than 3,500 individuals have sadly lost their lives, with over 15,000 others sustaining injuries due to Israeli attacks.Netanyahu expressed during his visit to Gaza on Tuesday that Hamas would not govern the Palestinian enclave once the conflict concluded, and highlighted that Israel had successfully neutralized the group’s military capacity.Netanyahu also mentioned that Israel is continuing its efforts to find the 101 remaining hostages thought to still be in the enclave. He also announced a $5 million reward for the safe return of each individual.Hamas is seeking a peace agreement to conclude the conflict, including the release of Israeli and foreign hostages detained in Gaza, as well as Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. In contrast, Netanyahu has vowed that the conflict can be resolved only by eliminating Hamas.
