Jakarta, CNBC Indonesia - Israeli Prime Minister (PM) Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the end of the armed conflict with Iran opens up new opportunities for his country, including efforts to repatriate hostages still held by Hamas in Gaza. He made this statement while visiting the Shin Bet intelligence facility on Sunday, several days after Trump announced via his social media regarding the potential for a ceasefire in the Palestinian enclave.
"As you may know, many opportunities have opened up now after this victory. First of all, to rescue the hostages," Netanyahu said in an official statement, as quoted by Reuters.
"Of course we also have to solve the Gaza problem, to defeat Hamas, but I expect we will achieve both of those tasks," he continued.
Previously, Israel and Iran were locked in a 12-day war that ended on June 24. Israeli Military Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir called it a strategic moment to pressure Hamas.
Meanwhile, the postponement of Netanyahu's corruption trial by the Jerusalem District Court has raised speculation that Israel is focusing on hostage release diplomacy. The postponement was granted for undisclosed security and diplomatic reasons.
US President Donald Trump also said the trial could hurt Netanyahu's negotiating efforts. Trump said on Saturday that Netanyahu was negotiating a ceasefire deal with Hamas, although no official details have been released from either side.
It was reported on Friday that Trump stated that a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas could be achieved in the near future. Even within the next week.
"I think we're almost there," Trump said, as quoted by CBS News, referring to the ceasefire in Gaza.
The US itself has proposed a 60-day ceasefire and the release of half the hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners and bodies. Hamas would release the rest if a permanent ceasefire is implemented.
Meanwhile, the Hostages and Families of the Missing Forum, which represents the families of the 50 hostages remaining in Gaza, welcomed Netanyahu's remarks, saying the return of the hostages had finally been made a top priority by the prime minister.
"This must be translated into a comprehensive agreement immediately," he said, noting that of the 50 hostages still being held, only about 20 are believed to be alive.
However, the Israeli military continues its military operations. Yesterday, residents of northern Gaza were ordered to evacuate their areas ahead of a major attack on Hamas positions.
Meanwhile, a Hamas official said his group was ready to resume talks, but continued to demand an end to the war and a full withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. Israel insists the war will only end if Hamas is disarmed and disbanded, a condition Hamas has consistently rejected.
Israel and Hamas have been fighting since October 2023. Gaza's Health Ministry says more than 56,000 Palestinians have been killed and nearly all of Gaza's 2.3 million residents are now displaced, with the humanitarian crisis worsening.
