Netanyahu Faces Political Crossroads as Trump’s Hostage Ultimatum Nears
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is under increasing pressure as US President-elect Donald Trump’s January 20 deadline for the release of hostages held by Hamas in Gaza looms. Trump’s vague warning of “all hell to pay” has intensified political and military tensions in Israel. Reporter Keren Setton explains that Trump’s incoming Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, is actively mediating, visiting both Israel and Qatar to negotiate a possible deal. Netanyahu faces difficult decisions balancing the demands of his political coalition, military strategy, and US relations. Domestically, Netanyahu is caught between calls for aggressive military action to secure hostages’ release and growing public protests urging a ceasefire. Opposition leaders accuse him of prolonging the war for political survival. Meanwhile, the fragile ceasefire with Hezbollah on Israel’s northern border adds another layer of complexity. Trump’s stance on Iran may also push Netanyahu toward making concessions in Gaza and Lebanon. Setton reports that Netanyahu’s government is deeply divided, with far-right allies threatening to collapse the coalition if concessions are made to Hamas. As Israel’s war in Gaza, now in its 16th month, continues with heavy casualties and public discontent, Netanyahu must navigate these pressures carefully. Read Keren Setton’s full article for a deeper look into how Netanyahu is handling these growing challenges.
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