Netanyahu meets with hostage families and IDF soldiers in Washington

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his wife met last night in Washington with representatives of families of abductees who are part of the Israeli delegation or currently in the United States. They also met with relatives of those killed in the Gaza fighting and IDF soldiers who fought terrorists on October 7.

"This important visit will give us the opportunity to convey to the representatives of the American people the importance of supporting our efforts to secure the release of all abductees, both the living and the dead. Unfortunately, some are dead. We are determined to bring them all back. The conditions for their return are ripe because we are putting very strong pressure on Hamas. We intend to do this. This is the goal of the war," Netanyahu said during the meeting.

After the meeting, Netanyahu emphasized his commitment to balancing humanitarian goals with the need to return the abductees and maintain the security of Israel: "I am in no way prepared to give up on victory over Hamas. If we give up, we will be in danger from the entire Iranian axis of evil. The decisions we make are fateful for the future of the State of Israel and the Zionist movement."

He expressed hope for the release of the hostages, noting that the terms of a deal are maturing and the enemy's spirit is broken. "I want this hope to accompany you too. I know about your terrible difficulties, the nightmares you are experiencing, the hell you are living in. Do not lose hope; we will make it happen," Netanyahu said.