Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Thursday that Israel will secure the release of all hostages held by Hamas, either through diplomatic means or military action. Speaking after meeting families of both living and deceased captives, Netanyahu stated that a new initiative is underway but remains conditional.

“We are committed to bringing everyone back,” he said. “If this is not achieved through diplomacy, it will be achieved through force. This is how we have acted, and this is how we will act.”

Conditions Remain Key Obstacle

Netanyahu emphasized that any significant release would only occur if Hamas agrees to disarm and if Gaza is fully demilitarized. These terms have long been at the core of Israel’s position, but they remain unacceptable to Hamas, according to sources familiar with the Qatar-mediated negotiations.

Indirect talks in Doha, which resumed earlier this week, have reportedly stalled on two main points: the full withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza and the unrestricted entry of humanitarian aid into the territory.

Tensions Grow As Talks Drag On

Hamas reiterated that it will not agree to a deal without Israel’s military exit from Gaza. Meanwhile, Israel continues to link any ceasefire or hostage agreement to security guarantees and territorial control.

The stalled progress comes amid mounting pressure from families of the hostages and growing international concern over the humanitarian toll in Gaza. Despite calls from allies and mediators, both sides have shown little willingness to compromise on their core demands.