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On Eve of Prisoner Exchange: Netanyahu Holds Firm on War Objectives
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Netanyahu's emphasis on Biden and Trump's support for Israel's right to return to fighting indicates his pursuit of American political cover for continued operations
Both parties are preparing to implement the prisoner exchange agreement tomorrow, Sunday, amid Israeli assurances of not backing down from war objectives in Gaza.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized in his statements that returning hostages is a "sacred mission," pointing to U.S. President Joe Biden and President-elect Donald Trump's support for Israel's right to resume fighting.
Netanyahu explained that his government seeks to return the maximum number of living prisoners in the first phase, confirming that the agreement ensures control over the Philadelphia Corridor and the buffer zone.
The Israeli Prime Minister affirmed his country's determination to prevent Hamas from bringing weapons into Gaza, noting an increase in forces in the West Bank and tightening control over all crossings.
Netanyahu spoke of "tremendous achievements" made by Israel in the war, referring to operations against Hezbollah, the Houthis, and inside Iran.
The agreement's first phase stipulates exchanging 33 hostages held in Gaza for 737 Palestinian detainees, with the first exchange operations beginning tomorrow, Sunday, releasing three Israeli women in exchange for 95 Palestinians.
Netanyahu confirmed that Israel will not tolerate any violation of the agreement terms, requiring receipt of a list of hostages to be released before starting the exchange process.
Levant-Agencies
