What it is about

The IDF has taken control of the Rafah crossing as part of ongoing efforts to negotiate the release of hostages held by terrorist group Hamas. Amid these efforts, MK Simcha Rothman has voiced strong criticism of the negotiations facilitated by the US and stresses the importance of military pressure.

Why it matters

Rothman’s remarks highlight Israel’s stance against negotiating with terrorist organizations, reinforcing the belief that military action, rather than diplomatic talks, is the most effective method for ensuring the hostages’ release and weakening Hamas. His comments echo the frustrations of many who see international negotiations as counterproductive to Israel’s goals.

Driving the news

MK Simcha Rothman articulated, “Military pressure is the best catalyst for the return of the hostages. This has been our position from the beginning, and this is our position today. I think entry to Rafah and military pressure is the best way to achieve the goals of the war – the release of the hostages and the defeat of Hamas. When we talk about a deal, there is a confusion of concepts. There cannot be a real deal when you are negotiating with a terrorist organization. I am against this.”

Quotes from Rothman

Rothman further insists, “I think the second you conduct negotiations with a terrorist organization, you strengthen its international status, worsen the condition of the hostages, and harm the ability to achieve the goals of the war. The operation the IDF carried out yesterday was just a demonstration of what happens when they finally start acting.”

What’s next

Rothman concludes by emphasizing that negotiations with Qatar, Cairo, or Washington will only delay the day when hostages can be safely brought home. “I think it is a mistake to enter this issue again and again instead of continuing military pressure until the people holding our hostages raise a white flag and return them home,” he stated.

This story was first published on jpost.com.