Meetings discussed the release of Israelis in Gaza; Israeli prime minister says he needs more time for rescue
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's speech during a special meeting on Hamas hostages was interrupted this Monday (December 25, 2023) by family members of Israelis detained by the extremist group in Gaza.
They began shouting as the country's leader said he needed “more time” to free those who were detained on October 7, the day the conflict began. The information comes from the Times of Israel newspaper.
Those in attendance stood and chanted “Now, now” while holding signs.
Watch the moment (18s):
During Netanyahu's speech in the Knesset today, they expressed their dissatisfaction with his ongoing war in Gaza and called for an exchange agreement. The families of Israeli prisoners rose from their seats, holding banners and chanting “Now, now, now.” pic.twitter.com/PwlfXre7FJ
— Quds News Network (@QudsNen) December 25, 2023
Netanyahu said in his speech that he would spare no effort to free the hostages, but that this would only be possible with “military pressure.” Military commanders in the region have indicated that more time is needed to carry out the rescue, the prime minister said.
On October 7, an estimated 240 people of various nationalities, most of whom were Israeli citizens, were brought to Gaza following an attack in southern Israel. As part of the ceasefire agreement, Hamas released more than 100 Israeli hostages. On the other hand, Israel released some Palestinians, including 240 women and teenagers.