Report: Netanyahu Rejected Hamas Offer to Return Israeli Prisoners and Bodies 13 Months Ago

Report: Netanyahu Rejected Hamas Offer to Return Israeli Prisoners and Bodies 13 Months Ago

News January 24, 2025
Report: Netanyahu Rejected Hamas Offer to Return Israeli Prisoners and Bodies 13 Months Ago
Occupied Palestine (Quds News Network)- Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejected a Hamas offer to release Israeli prisoners and return the bodies of Israeli settlers over a year ago, according to a recent revelation by an Israeli cabinet minister reported by Israeli channel 12. The proposal, made 13 months ago, included the return of Yarden Bibas, along with the bodies of his wife and children, who were killed in an Israeli airstrike. The rejection has sparked criticism, especially as Israelis now claim the Bibas children are alive. Analysts argue this narrative may be used to justify future escalations and derail ceasefire agreements. Dr. Michael Milstein from the Moshe Dayan Center stated, “Hamas was ready to release the promised number of prisoners. However, it also wanted to test Israel’s red lines.” The breakdown of negotiations led to renewed fighting and a missed chance to secure humanitarian progress. Confidential discussions reveal that internal political pressures within Israel influenced the decision-making process. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir reportedly opposed deals that involved substantial prisoner releases or lengthy ceasefires. Documents show Netanyahu consistently hardened his stance. In December 2023, he instructed negotiators to “only listen” during talks mediated by Qatar and Egypt. A proposed three-phase ceasefire plan was also dismissed by his government. Critics, including former Israeli officials, believe the rejection wasted months of potential progress. “We could have brought Yarden Bibas home on humanitarian grounds,” a senior official said. Observers note that Israeli narratives surrounding Israeli prisoners, particularly the Bibas children, are being manipulated to prepare public opinion for future military actions. Some fear the return of their remains may be used to justify resuming large-scale operations in Gaza.

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