Israeli Opposition Proposes Unity Government For Gaza Hostage Release

Israeli opposition leaders, including Benny Gantz, Yair Lapid, and Avigdor Lieberman, have called on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to form a unity government to prioritize the release of around 50 hostages held by Hamas in Gaza, arguing that a temporary coalition could secure a majority in Parliament and focus on ending the hostage crisis. Netanyahu has avoided publicly answering key questions about whether he supports the recently approved Hamas deal outline, if he would agree to cease hostilities to free the hostages, or if a realistic compromise is achievable. The internal political dispute has intensified, with Lieberman accusing Netanyahu of sacrificing hostages to preserve his coalition, demanding a clear exchange of ceasefire for the hostages’ return, while Likud accused Lieberman of undermining the war effort by promoting surrender to Hamas. Meanwhile, widespread public demonstrations in Tel Aviv persist, demanding government action to end the war and secure the hostages’ release. Netanyahu also discussed the broader conflict and Israel’s security concerns in an interview highlighting U.S. support under President Trump and threats from Iran and its proxies. The political deadlock underscores the deep divisions within Israel’s leadership on how to resolve the hostage situation and the Gaza conflict.