Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that the most important goal of Israel’s war in Gaza is defeating its enemies, not bringing the hostages home. Netanyahu made this statement on Thursday during Israel’s Independence Day. He said, “We want to bring back all of our hostages. That is a very important goal. In war, there is a supreme objective. And that supreme objective is victory over our enemies.” This is the first time Netanyahu has clearly said that freeing the 59 hostages still held in Gaza is not the top goal. Before, he often said that both destroying Hamas and freeing the h

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that the most important goal of Israel’s war in Gaza is defeating its enemies, not bringing the hostages home. Netanyahu made this statement on Thursday during Israel’s Independence Day. He said, “We want to bring back all of our hostages. That is a very important goal. In war, there is a supreme objective. And that supreme objective is victory over our enemies.” This is the first time Netanyahu has clearly said that freeing the 59 hostages still held in Gaza is not the top goal. Before, he often said that both destroying Hamas and freeing the hostages were equal goals, according to CNN news. Families of the hostages are very upset. A group called the Hostages and Missing Families Forum responded in a statement: “Prime Minister, the return of the hostages is not ‘less’ important it is the supreme goal that should guide the government of Israel.” Public opinion also seems to disagree with Netanyahu. Polls show most Israelis want a deal that would release the hostages and end the war. Netanyahu’s view is shared by some far-right politicians. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich recently said, “Bringing back the hostages is not the most important goal. It is, of course, a very, very, very, very important goal. But anyone who wants to destroy Hamas must understand that Hamas cannot remain in Gaza.” Meanwhile, the Israeli military is preparing for more fighting if there is no ceasefire agreement with Hamas. Netanyahu is expected to meet with top defense officials soon. This is the second time in a week that the hostages’ families have felt hurt by the Netanyahu family. On Monday, his wife Sara Netanyahu was heard saying that fewer than 24 hostages are still alive. Families were shocked. The forum said, “You sowed indescribable panic in the hearts of the families of the hostages families already living in agonizing uncertainty. If there is intelligence or new information... we demand full disclosure.” Israeli officials recently said they believe up to 24 of the 59 hostages are still alive. But they also admit they are very worried about at least three of them. There is also growing criticism from Israeli military reservists. Some say the war is now more about politics than real security. In public letters, they say continuing the war may not be in the best interest of the country.    

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