What’s new:
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has raised the possibility of expelling Hamas leaders from Gaza amidst ongoing efforts to secure the return of hostages held by the group. This development comes as the reported death of Hamas’s deputy chief Saleh al-Arouri spotlights current tensions and the uncertainties in negotiations.
Why it matters:
The safety and return of hostages are paramount concerns for Israel and the statement from Netanyahu carries implications for the direction of Israel’s military strategy and diplomatic negotiations regarding Gaza. With the dynamics of the conflict shifting, the potential exile of top Hamas figures could mark a significant policy move and a new phase in the conflict.
Details:
During Netanyahu’s meeting with hostages’ relatives, news of al-Arouri’s death from an alleged Israeli airstrike broke, possibly influencing the already fragile negotiation process. There was no immediate discussion on how this development might impact the ongoing talks. Netanyahu emphasized his commitment to bringing captives home and signaled that military pressure was being exerted on Gaza. Despite suggestions that Hamas had eased its ultimatums, the status of negotiations remains uncertain, more so following the strike that killed al-Arouri.
The backdrop:
Hamas leaders have been threatened by Israel following a deadly attack by the group on October 7. The senior officials are deemed particularly elusive, likely sheltering in Gaza’s extensive tunnel network. Mixed reports and indirect talks indicate fluctuating prospects for a deal on hostages, with Hamas’s demands and Israel’s response continuing to evolve.
The big picture:
Arouri’s assassination has paused the indirect talks, shifting diplomatic focus to preventing northern border escalation. Arouri was a notable figure in orchestrating anti-Israel activities from the West Bank and had been vital in past hostage negotiations. With more than 100 hostages presumed remaining in Hamas custody, the current impasse poses significant challenges for achieving a peaceful resolution.
By the numbers:
Hamas executed a significant attack on October 7, resulting in the capture of over 240 individuals and the death of around 1,200 people, mainly civilians. Although some hostages have been released or escaped, the fate of many remains uncertain. Two Israeli civilians and the remains of two IDF soldiers also remain in Hamas’s hands since 2014 and 2015. Netanyahu’s strategic considerations thus carry heavy weight against the backdrop of these human costs.
What’s next:
With the talks currently stalled, the international community and involved parties will watch closely to see if Netanyahu’s suggestion of exiling Hamas leaders materializes into an actionable policy. The continuation of negotiations could hinge on Israel’s next moves and Hamas’s response to recent events.
This story was first published on timesofisrael.com.