Netanyahu Visits US Amid Gaza Hostage Crisis

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited Washington to address Congress, where he highlighted the unity needed between Israel and the U.S. against threats from Hamas and Iran, while urging continued military aid. Concurrently, the Israeli military reported recovering the bodies of five individuals killed in the October 7 Hamas attack, including soldiers and civilians, as part of ongoing efforts to address the hostage situation in Gaza. Despite these recoveries, 111 hostages remain in captivity, with 39 confirmed dead. Netanyahu's government faces criticism for its handling of the war and the perceived lack of progress in hostage negotiations. Israeli airstrikes continue in Gaza, resulting in civilian casualties, which Netanyahu downplayed in his speech. Discussions for a potential ceasefire and hostage release are expected to take place next week with the involvement of the U.S., Egypt, and Qatar.